The online dictionary website Le Robert has published the new words in 2026.
Article from La rédaction des Éditions Le Robert
A French alternative to “deepfake,” coined in Quebec, this term refers to highly realistic manipulated audio or video content created using artificial intelligence. It has entered official usage, including in the 2024 EU AI law, which requires such content to be clearly labelled as AI-generated.
Unlike recycling, which often results in lower-quality products, surcyclage involves repurposing used materials into higher-value items—such as artworks, luxury accessories, or more durable goods. Although terms like suprarecyclage were also proposed, surcyclage has become the most commonly used.
Previously known as “monkeypox,” the term mpox was adopted to avoid stigmatising particular regions or animal species. It is a viral disease similar to smallpox, and in French, both masculine and feminine genders are considered acceptable.
This refers to subtle, often unintentional, comments or behaviours perceived as discriminatory—such as remarks about someone’s ethnicity, accent, or appearance. While individually minor, these experiences can build up and have a significant emotional impact over time.
A traditional Japanese storytelling technique that uses illustrated panels displayed in a small wooden theatre. It has grown in popularity in France, particularly in schools and libraries. The term comes from Japanese: kami means “paper” and shibaï means “theatre.”
Originally a medical term, hallucination has acquired a new meaning in the field of AI: it now refers to instances where an AI system generates false but seemingly convincing responses. The dictionary has been updated to include this modern usage.
A popular Middle Eastern spice blend made with sesame seeds, sumac, salt, and herbs like thyme or oregano. The term also refers to the plant itself. Zaatar now joins the dictionary alongside other regional dishes such as chakchouka.
A poetic Québécois phrase describing someone who dreams up impossible ideas—akin to a “dreamer” or someone with their “head in the clouds.” It’s a colourful expression showcasing the creative richness of Canadian French.
Popularised by music and youth culture in Marseille, this affectionate phrase (similar to “my love” or “darling”) is now widely used across France. It also exists in Réunion Creole. Other Marseille slang terms, such as tanquer and tarpin, have also been added to the dictionary.
First recorded in the 1920s to mean madness or wild behaviour, dinguerie has been revived by younger generations. Today, it can describe anything surprising or impressive—whether good or bad (e.g., “That film was a dinguerie!”). The dictionary entry now reflects this more modern, often positive usage.
Find the original article in French here
