étreindre
to embrace, to hold tightly
Advanced Verb
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Pronunciation
/e.tʁɛ̃dʁ/
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Cultural Note
'Étreindre' is a literary and elevated word for embracing someone tightly, more intense than 'serrer dans ses bras.' It conjugates like 'peindre.' The noun form 'étreinte' (embrace) is common in romantic literature and poetry, evoking passionate, desperate holding.
📝 Example Sentences
Il l'a étreinte avec toute la force de son amour.
He embraced her with all the strength of his love.
Ils se sont étreints longuement avant de se dire adieu.
They held each other for a long time before saying goodbye.