Double Entendre
noun /ˌdʌb.əl ɒnˈtɒn.drə/ — A phrase with two interpretations, one usually risqué.
Definition
A phrase or figure of speech that can be interpreted in two ways — one of which is typically innocuous, the other suggesting something improper, particularly sexual. Relies on shared awareness: both speaker and audience understand both meanings.
Beyond the definition
The double entendre creates a private space within public speech — both parties aware of the second meaning, neither required to acknowledge it. It is intimacy through plausible deniability.
Origin & history
French: 'double meaning' (literally 'double hearing'). Now considered an archaic French phrase — modern French uses 'double sens'. The term entered English in the 17th century.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Shakespeare is a masterclass in double entendre — the Elizabethan audience caught what centuries of editors tried to clean up.
She deployed the double entendre with perfect timing, maintaining the straight face that made both meanings available simultaneously.
The sign read 'Our meat is always fresh' — and either the copywriter was oblivious or very proud of themselves.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Double Entendre” when the meaning fits your context: A phrase or figure of speech that can be interpreted in two ways — one of which is typically innocuous, the other suggesting something improper, particularly sexual. Relies on shared awareness: both speaker and audience understand both meanings.
Synonyms
double meaning, ambiguity, innuendo
Antonyms
direct statement, literal language
Related words
Double Entendre vs pun
A double entendre is a phrase with a double meaning, usually one being risqué. A pun is a play on words based on similar sounds or multiple meanings for humor.
Word in the Wild
See how this word appears in life, language and stories.
Illustrative sentences and imagined stories for learning — not verified sightings, interviews, or sourced quotations.
Fictional scene
Capturing a Fleeting Dual Meaning
An adult camera in hand catches the moment when a sunbeam strikes a flower.
The beam of light illuminating the flower serves as a dual focus point, mirroring a double entendre. It holds two meanings simultaneously—the simple beauty of the flower and the hidden potential of the moment—requiring shared awareness to understand.
Image credit: Wordspun · AI-generated conceptual illustration
Questions about this word
What does "Double Entendre" mean?
Double Entendre is noun meaning: A phrase with two interpretations, one usually risqué.. A phrase or figure of speech that can be interpreted in two ways — one of which is typically innocuous, the other suggesting something improper, particularly sexual. Relies on shared awareness: both speaker and audience understand both meanings.
Where does the word "Double Entendre" come from?
French: 'double meaning' (literally 'double hearing'). Now considered an archaic French phrase — modern French uses 'double sens'. The term entered English in the 17th century.