Chanel

American

[shuh-nel, sha-nel] / ʃəˈnɛl, ʃaˈnɛl /

noun

Gabrielle Coco, 1882–1971, French fashion designer.

Chanel British

/ ʃanɛl /

noun

Gabrielle (ɡabriɛl), known as Coco Chanel. 1883–1971, French couturière and perfumer, who created "the little black dress" and the perfume Chanel No. 5

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That shift leaves Kering more exposed than rivals such as Hermès or Chanel, whose clientele skews further upmarket.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

The attendees of this latest Chanel party were channeling all the joy they could muster before sitting for dinner.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2026

Jessie Buckley, the favorite to win the best actress Oscar for her portrayal of William Shakespeare's grief-stricken wife in "Hamnet," looked regal in a red Chanel off-the-shoulder bodice and flowing pink ball skirt.

From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026

It's well-loved and unpretentious, with Chanel and Dior handbags dangling from the ceiling, and shelves of crystal-embellished heels.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

It smelled like Chanel No. 5 and pencil shavings.

From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023