éclair

noun

ē-ˈkler How to pronounce éclair (audio) ā- How to pronounce éclair (audio)
e-,
ə-;
ˈē-ˌkler How to pronounce éclair (audio)
ˈā-,
ˈe-
: a usually chocolate-frosted oblong pastry filled with whipped cream or custard

Examples of éclair in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
They’re made from a French pâte à choux—the same batter used to make eclairs and cream puffs—which was likely introduced to Italy by French chefs who worked in the Italian royal kitchens. — Cindy Salvato, Saveur, 19 Mar. 2025 The total recall amounts to more than 2 million cases of doughnuts, fritters, paczki, eclairs and munchkins. — Christine Rousselle, Fox News, 8 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, lightning

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of éclair was in 1861

Browse Nearby Words

ecl
éclair
éclaircissement
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“éclair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/%C3%A9clair. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

éclair

noun
ā-ˈkla(ə)r How to pronounce éclair (audio) i- How to pronounce éclair (audio)
-ˈkle(ə)r;
ˈā-ˌkla(ə)r,
-ˌkle(ə)r,
ˈē-
: an oblong pastry with whipped cream or custard filling
Etymology

French, literally, "lightning"

Word Origin
The English word éclair comes directly from a French word whose chief meaning is "lightning" or "flash of lightning." No one is sure why a pastry was named after lightning. Some say the lightness of the cream puff and its soft filling is the reason for the name. Perhaps more likely its richness and oblong shape, easily held in one hand, compel a person to eat it in a flash.
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