pétanque

[ pey-tahngk; French pe-tahnk ]

noun

1. a form of lawn bowling originating in France, usually played on rough ground using steel balls.

pétanque

/ petɑ̃k /

noun

1. another name, esp in the South of France, for boules

Word History and Origins

Origin of pétanque¹

1950–55; < French < Provençal pé foot (< Latin ped-, stem of pēs ) + tanco post, stake (derivative of tancar to close, bar < Vulgar Latin *stanticāre; stanch ¹ ); so called because the feet are to be planted firmly on the ground, as if staked, when the ball is released

Word History and Origins

Origin of pétanque¹

from Provençal pèd tanco foot fixed (to the ground)

Example Sentences

Similar to petanque, it is played by athletes in wheelchairs who have an impairment that affects their motor function.

From BBC

It’s the length of nine pétanque courts!

From New York Times

To be sure, Lupin Lodge offers an array of activities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, volleyball court, tennis court, pétanque, basketball net, tetherball, pickleball, children’s playground, table tennis, books, puzzles, board games and cable TV in the clubhouse lounge.

From Seattle Times

Bio narrowly missed gold in the 2016 World Petanque Championships in Madagascar, and was desperate to bring the trophy home to his country in last week's tournament.

From Reuters

Originating from French beach clubs in the early 20th century, petanque involves tossing steel balls as close as possible to a smaller wooden ball called a cochonnet, while standing inside a circle with both feet on the ground.

From Reuters