# Gaulle

/ˈɡɔɫ/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gaulle
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the name of a famous French leader and general who led France during World War II. He later became the president of France and is a very important figure in French history.

For teachers: refers to Charles de Gaulle, the French army officer and statesman who led the Free French Forces during World War II. He subsequently founded the French Fifth Republic and served as its first president from 1959 to 1969.

## Examples

- Many people in France still respect the legacy of Gaulle.
- The main international airport in Paris is named after Charles de Gaulle to honour his leadership.
- Historians often debate the long-term impact of Gaulle's nationalist policies on the modern structure of the European Union and France's independent nuclear deterrent.

## Usage notes

- Usually appears as part of the full name 'Charles de Gaulle' or in the name of the 'Charles de Gaulle Airport'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.