Cochon

/ˈkoʊʃɔ̃/ noun

Definition

A French word for pig, also used in English culinary contexts to refer to pork or pig-related dishes.

Etymology

From Old French 'cochon,' ultimately from Latin 'coccinus' (scarlet-colored), possibly referencing the pig's coloring or a child's word that became formalized.

Kelly Says

The word 'cochon' appears in French cuisine terminology like 'tête de cochon' (pig's head), and many English chefs adopted French culinary vocabulary because Norman French nobles ruled England after 1066.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

French for 'pig'; historically used as a derogatory term for women (cochonne, feminine form) in colonial and contemporary contexts, conflating women with animals or filth.

Inclusive Usage

Avoid gendered variants (cochonne) in mixed contexts. If discussing the animal, use neutral animal terminology instead.

Inclusive Alternatives

["pig","swine","porcine animal"]

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