Why Do French People Say “Coucou”? 👋🐦🇫🇷
If you’re learning French and you’ve ever heard someone say “Coucou !”, you might be wondering:
Wait… aren’t they just saying “cuckoo”? Like the bird?
Yes — literally, “coucou” means “cuckoo” in French. But in everyday conversation, it means something completely different — and very sweet!
Let’s explore the meaning, usage, and cultural vibe behind this adorable French greeting.
🔹 What Does “Coucou” Mean?
“Coucou” is an informal, friendly greeting, similar to:
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“Hey there!”
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“Hiya!”
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“Peekaboo!” (in a playful sense)
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“Hey cutie!” (in a very familiar or affectionate tone)
It’s used instead of “bonjour” or “salut” when the mood is light, warm, or playful.
Example:
— Coucou, ça va ?
— Oui, et toi ?
(“Hey there, how are you?” — “Good, and you?”)
🔸 Who Uses “Coucou”?
“Coucou” is especially common:
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Among close friends
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When greeting children
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In text messages or voice notes
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Between family members
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In romantic or affectionate relationships
It’s not rude — but it’s very informal. You wouldn’t use it with your boss, a stranger, or in formal emails.
🔸 Where Does It Come From?
As you guessed, “coucou” originally refers to the cuckoo bird — known for popping out of cuckoo clocks with a cheerful “coo-coo!” sound.
That popping-out motion is where we get the playful vibe. It’s a bit like saying “Peekaboo!” in English — surprising someone in a cute, harmless way.
Over time, the word became a friendly, cheerful greeting — like saying “Surprise, I’m here!” in a warm tone.
🔸 Is It Just for Kids?
Nope! While it’s very common with children (parents and teachers say it all the time), adults use “coucou” too — especially:
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When texting friends
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When arriving at a friend’s house
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When starting a casual phone call
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When trying to be endearing or playful
For example:
Coucou ma chérie, tu me manques !
(“Hey sweetie, I miss you!”)
🔸 Should You Use It?
If you’re learning French and want to sound more natural and friendly, then yes — try it!
Just remember:
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✅ Use it with friends, kids, or people you’re close to.
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❌ Avoid using it in formal situations, business emails, or with people you’ve just met.
It’s a small word, but it says a lot about French warmth and informality in casual speech.
🐣 Mini Dialogue Example
— Coucou ! Tu fais quoi ce week-end ?
— Coucou toi ! Je pars à la mer, et toi ?
Notice how “coucou” adds a friendly, intimate tone — more relaxed than “bonjour” or even “salut.”
🗨️ Final Thoughts
“Coucou” is one of those charming little words that makes French feel more alive and personal.
It’s cute, casual, and full of character — just like the people who use it.
So the next time you message your French friend, skip the boring “Bonjour” and try a cheerful:
Coucou ! 😊
Want more real-life French expressions explained?
Check out our next post on the mysterious (and super common) word “bah”…