also written as Artaille, it is an Arabism, a loan from the Algerian Arabic dialect where it has the same injurious meaning of sissy. It is part of the current jargon of the French “banlieues” (suburbs) although we can trace its use in France in the late 60s and early 70s when the number of immigrants from Algeria exceeded one million people after its independence. Today the use of this word is increasingly widespread among young people, regardless of their origin, both in its original version Artaï and in its Verlan version, Ratai.
Variations: Ratai, Artaille, Artail.
Related: Zamel, Ateye, Miboune, Kerfa.
What do you think about this expression?
Tell us what you think, if you like it or not, if there is an error, and also, if you know any word with which to expand this dictionary. Your opinion and your information are very important. And the diffusion too!
You can share it in your networks, and also, leave us a comment