Chirac

American  

[shee-rak] / ʃiˈræk /

noun

1. Jacques (René), 1932–2019, prime minister of France 1974–76, 1986–88; president 1995–2007.

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Chirac British  

/ ʃirak /

noun

1. Jacques ( René ) (ʒɑk). born 1932, French Gaullist politician: president of France (1995–2007); prime minister (1974–76 and 1986–88); mayor of Paris (1977–95)

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Example Sentences

A former economics professor, Jospin cast himself as a clean pair of hands compared to his conservative rival, the corruption-tainted but chummy and charismatic Jacques Chirac.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

Chirac defeated him in the 1995 presidential race, but then lost a snap parliamentary vote in 1997, forcing him into so-called "cohabitation" with the left.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

But Jospin tripped up in his 2002 presidential rematch against Chirac, making a number of gaffes, including a swipe at his opponent's age that was seen as below the belt.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

French presidents dating back to conservative Jacques Chirac have said that France’s vital interests have a “European dimension,” but participation in nuclear exercises and deployment outside France offer allies a less ambiguous signal.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026

She perceived after a few moments that Chirac did genuinely admire her; more, that she inspired him with something that resembled awe.

From The Old Wives' Tale by Bennett, Arnold