1. A word, phrase, or idiom that is characteristic of French and used in another language; a French expression or construction adopted by speakers of another language.
Usage: Usually plural; refers to French linguistic features borrowed or imitated in English or other languages.
2. A French custom, manner, or characteristic adopted or imitated by people of another country.
Usage: Broader sense; can refer to cultural or social practices, not just language.

Examples

• The English language contains many gallicisms, such as 'café' and 'entrepreneur.'
• Scholars debate whether certain gallicisms in medieval English texts reflect direct French influence.
• The author's use of gallicisms gave the novel a distinctly European flavor.
• Some critics argue that excessive gallicisms in formal writing can obscure meaning for general readers.
• The diplomat's speech was peppered with gallicisms that reflected his years spent in Paris.
• Linguists study gallicisms to understand how languages borrow from one another.