double entendre
Say it: DOO-buhl on-TON-druh /ˌduːbəl ɒ̃ˈtɒ̃drə/ · noun phrase
What “double entendre” means
A phrase with two meanings, usually including a rude one.
More precisely: A phrase with two meanings, one of them usually rude or risqué.
Example: “The ad's slogan was a double entendre the marketing team didn't notice.”
When to use it
For a remark with an innocent and a suggestive meaning, usually when discussing jokes, dialogue or advertising.
Similar words
innuendo, double meaning, pun
Where it comes from
Obsolete French, 'double understanding'.
Quick check
A baker says, 'Come and admire my buns,' meaning bread while knowingly inviting a cheeky interpretation. That's…
a double entendre or a euphemism?
Show the answer
a double entendre
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