Dictionary-enhanced plural guide
What is the Plural of “Cul-de-sac”?
Learn the singular and plural noun forms, the rule behind the plural, and examples that show the form in context.
Singular and Plural Form of Cul-de-sac
Cul-de-sac is the singular noun form. Culs-de-sac is the plural form.
Dictionary meaning: A short dead-end road that only has one way in and out, often circular at the closed end.
Why is the Plural of Cul-de-sac “culs-de-sac”?
The Both Plural Rule for Cul-de-sac
Most English nouns form the plural by adding -s. Example: cul-de-sac → cul-de-sacs
Plural pattern: both.
How to Remember the Plural of Cul-de-sac
Pair the two forms in your memory: cul-de-sac (singular) ⇄ culs-de-sac (plural). Say them together a few times.
A common slip-up: Pronouncing the final 'c' as silent (French-style). In English, the 'c' is pronounced..
Singular vs Plural Examples with Cul-de-sac
See cul-de-sac and culs-de-sac used in real sentences side by side.
- Our house is at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. A2
- Children play safely in cul-de-sacs because there is no through traffic. B1
- The road ended in a cul-de-sac, forcing drivers to turn around. B2
Common Plural Mistakes with Cul-de-sac
Wrong: The plural of cul-de-sac is cul-de-sacs only.
Correct: The plural can be culs-de-sac or cul-de-sacs.
French compounds pluralize the first noun; English also accepts -s at end
Wrong: We drove into a cul-de-sac and exited the other end.
Correct: We drove into a cul-de-sac and had to turn around.
A cul-de-sac has only one exit — the entrance
How to Pronounce Cul-de-sac and Culs-de-sac
Three syllables: KUL-duh-sak. Stress on first syllable. The 'c' at the end is pronounced.
Other Words With the Same Plural Pattern as Cul-de-sac
These nouns follow the same both rule. Click any word to see its plural page.
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Origin and Etymology of Cul-de-sac
From French cul-de-sac (bottom of a bag): cul (bottom) + de (of) + sac (bag).
Cultural note: Residential cul-de-sacs are considered desirable for safety as they have minimal through traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Plural of Cul-de-sac
What is the plural of “cul-de-sac”?
The plural of “cul-de-sac” is “culs-de-sac”.
Is “culs-de-sac” regular or irregular?
This page classifies it as both based on the available plural data.