Rousseau

American  

[roo-soh, roo-soh] / ruˈsoʊ, ruˈsoʊ /

noun

1. Henri Le Douanier, 1844–1910, French painter.

2. Jean Jacques 1712–78, French philosopher, author, and social reformer; born in Switzerland.

3. (Pierre Étienne) Théodore 1812–67, French painter.

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Rousseau British  

/ ruso /

noun

1. Henri (ɑ̃ri), known as le Douanier . 1844–1910, French painter, who created bold dreamlike pictures, often of exotic landscapes in a naive style. Among his works are Sleeping Gypsy (1897) and Jungle with a Lion (1904–06). He also worked as a customs official

2. Jean Jacques (ʒɑ̃ ʒak). 1712–78, French philosopher and writer, born in Switzerland, who strongly influenced the theories of the French Revolution and the romantics. Many of his ideas spring from his belief in the natural goodness of man, whom he felt was warped by society. His works include Du contrat social (1762), Émile (1762), and his Confessions (1782)

3. Théodore (teɔdɔr). 1812–67, French landscape painter: leader of the Barbizon school

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Compare meaning

How does rousseau compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• Voltaire vs. Rousseau

Example Sentences

Chief Executive Officer Michael Rousseau said Air Canada expects to offset between 50% and 60% of rising fuel costs, which have shot up since the beginning of the war in Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

Rousseau is stepping down from his post at the end of the third quarter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

After that mess, Mr. Rousseau promised to learn to speak French, and the chairman of the Air Canada board vowed that it would be “an integral part” of his performance evaluation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2026

"If you look at my work schedule, you'd understand why," Rousseau had responded.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Rousseau drove and I sat next to him — without handcuffs — in the front seat.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela