merde
interjection, nounVulgar
A French slang term. Browse all French slang.
What it means
Damn; shit. General-purpose frustration.
Good luck — said to a performer before going on stage, exactly as English says 'break a leg'. Replying merci is thought to break the charm.
Examples with translations
Merde, j'ai oublié mon portefeuille.
Damn, I've forgotten my wallet.
Merde pour ton concours demain!
Good luck with your exam tomorrow!
Note: Entirely sincere and kindly meant. The theatre origin is a horse-drawn-carriage superstition: more manure outside meant a bigger audience.