Marmaille: the Réunionese word for children
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In Réunion, “marmaille” simply refers to children, kids—the little group of young ones around you. The word carries a distinctly local nuance: it does not just mean “children”; it often suggests a lively, noisy, endearing group… in short, a marmaille like the kind you come across everywhere when things get a little lively. In everyday French, it can be translated as “the children,” “the kids,” or “the little ones.” It is a very natural expression in spoken language, especially in informal conversation. It is easily used when talking about a family, a neighbourhood, or a group of children bursting with energy. Example: “The marmaille has been playing outside since this morning; it’s impossible to get them to come back in.” Example: “Bring the marmaille home before night falls.” Its origins mainly lie in local usage: the word became established through family habits, neighbourhood life, and the distinctly Réunionese way of speaking in everyday life. It is a simple, very widespread term that immediately brings a smile because it sums up a whole lively little world all on its own. In short: “marmaille” is a local way of saying things, with the same core meaning as in standard French, but with a livelier tone that is more rooted in the local setting. Type selected: Typical words. Typical word: “marmaille” belongs to the area’s local vocabulary and adds a regional flavour to everyday conversation.
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Where: La Reunion