pétanque

American  

[pey-tahngk, pe-tahnk] / peɪˈtɑŋk, pɛˈtɑ̃k /

noun

1. a form of lawn bowling originating in France, usually played on rough ground using steel balls.

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pétanque British  

/ petɑ̃k /

noun

1. another name, esp in the South of France, for boules

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Etymology

Origin of pétanque

1950–55; < French < Provençal pé foot (< Latin ped-, stem of pēs ) + tanco post, stake (derivative of tancar to close, bar < Vulgar Latin *stanticāre; stanch ¹ ); so called because the feet are to be planted firmly on the ground, as if staked, when the ball is released

Example Sentences

Ms Thacker, a grandmother, has spent most of the past four decades enjoying village life: walking to the pub, playing petanque and visiting the local cricket club.

From BBC

Similar to petanque, it is played by athletes in wheelchairs who have an impairment that affects their motor function.

From BBC

It’s the length of nine pétanque courts!

From New York Times

To be sure, Lupin Lodge offers an array of activities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, volleyball court, tennis court, pétanque, basketball net, tetherball, pickleball, children’s playground, table tennis, books, puzzles, board games and cable TV in the clubhouse lounge.

From Seattle Times

"In every neighbourhood, in every street, you'll see people playing pétanque," he added.

From Reuters