billet-doux

noun

bil·​let-doux ˌbi-lē-ˈdü 

ˌbi-(ˌ)lā-

plural billets-doux ˌbi-lē-ˈdü(z) 

ˌbi-(ˌ)lā-

: a love letter

Did you know?

In French, billet doux means "sweet letter." English writers first fell in love with the word during the 17th century and have been committed to using it as a romantic alternative to "love letter" ever since.

Word History

Etymology

French billet doux, literally, sweet letter

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined above

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Kids Definition

billet-doux

noun

bil·​let-doux

ˌbil-ē-ˈdü,

ˌbil-(ˌ)ā-

plural billets-doux

-ˈdü(z)

: a love letter

Etymology

French, literally, "sweet letter"