crèche

American  

[kresh, kreysh, kresh] / krɛʃ, kreɪʃ, krɛʃ /

noun

plural

crèches

1. a small or large modeled representation or tableau of Mary, Joseph, and others around the crib of Jesus in the stable at Bethlehem, as is displayed in homes or erected for exhibition in a community at Christmas season.

2. a home for foundlings.

3. British. a day-care center; day nursery.

4. Animal Behavior. an assemblage of dependent young that are cared for communally.

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crèche British  

/ krɛʃ, kreɪʃ, krɛʃ /

noun

1. 1. a day nursery for very young children

   2. a supervised play area provided for young children for short periods

2. a tableau of Christ's Nativity

3. a foundling home or hospital

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Usage

What does crèche mean? A crèche is a nativity scene—a model of a scene depicting the birth of Jesus. Crèches are often displayed in or outside of homes or churches during Advent, the season preceding Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus and is among the most important Christian holidays. A crèche is also commonly called a Nativity scene or simply a Nativity. Crèche is also sometimes used to refer to a childcare facility like a day care. This sense of the word is primarily used in the United Kingdom. It is sometimes seen without the accent mark, which comes from its French spelling. Example: My children’s favorite part of the crèche is the goats and other animals.

Etymology

Origin of crèche

1785–95; < French, Old French < Frankish *kripja crib

Explanation

A creche is a representation of the scene of Jesus Christ’s birth. It's the nativity scene that is displayed at Christmas, with the manger, Mary, Joseph, and the three wise men. Although a creche is the same thing as a nativity scene, if you want to get nit-picky, the creche refers specifically to the baby Jesus in the manger. Crèche is a French word that also refers to a nursery or daycare center. Say creche to a British person and she’ll assume you’re talking about a daycare, 'cause that's what they call it across the pond.

Example Sentences

"If you feel nostalgic and wish we could go back to the good old days, come to La Creche," singer Albert Diasihilua cheered before taking to the stage.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

“This is ‘The Castelar Creche Cook Book’,” says artist Suzanne Joskow on a recent morning on the porch of her house in Hollywood.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 14, 2022

The mysterious choirmaster reportedly worked at the Cologne Cathedral in what is now considered Köln, Germany, where he served shepherd crook candies to the young singers occupied during long Living Creche ceremonies.

From Fox News • Dec. 19, 2021

“Cathedral Creche Exhibition: What Child is This?” an annual display of Nativity scenes from around the world.

From Washington Post • Dec. 14, 2013

We have to take some sort of action to protect the Creche, Jon.

From Turning Point by Coppel, Alfred

Related Words

• child care
• daycare
• nursery
• nursery school
• preschool