French flat

American  

noun

British Theater.

1. a flat that can be raised to or hung from the flies, and that contains practicable doors, windows, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of French flat

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80

Example Sentences

“So, I resort to the great old elegant English and French flat lace-up shoe brands — Crockett & Jones and Paraboot.”

From New York Times

The 28-year-old Boudot won the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe race two years ago on Waldgeist and claimed his third French flat racing title last year.

From Seattle Times

More rolling than the day before, on “French flat”, repeated small climbs and descents which look innocuous on the profile, but take their toll.

From The Guardian

The house was one of a row of French flat buildings, the ground floor of which is occupied by stores.

From Project Gutenberg

The French Flat; the small rooms, all right-angles, un-individual; the narrow halls; the gaudy, cheap decorations everywhere.

From Project Gutenberg