general, something belonging to France: thus we say, the French language, French customs, policy, &c.

The French language is made up of Latin, Greek, Teutonic, and the language spoken by the old Gauls. It is natural, and easily pronounced, and therefore used by most nations of Europe in conversing with foreigners. There are very few compound words in French, which is acknowledged to be its disadvantage. It has also few diminutives; but as to purity, easiness, and flexibility, it yields to none.