What is the Definition for the French Word <I>calme</I> in the European Directive Related to “Quiet Areas”? A Lexicographic Study from the 16th Century Until Today

Abstract

This paper presents al exicographic study of the expression "quiet areas" and its translations as theya ppear in the European directive 2002/49/EC. The main part of this study is about the French translation of "quiet areas": "zones calmes" and focuses on the definition of the word calme.T he analysis conducted in this article is based on various methodologies: diachronic studies and analyses of the lexical field. Those methodologies allowhighlighting the manifold notions linked to the word calme.The results showthat the definition of calme has greatly evolved through time, from afi rst one connected to the sea (calm sea)t ot he latest associated with acoustic notions (absence of noise). Between both notions, other definitions have been introduced as calme can also be linked to as tate of mind (the mind is not agitated). In all these definitions, it appears that calme is characterized by aspatial or temporal dimension. It is those characteristics which strengthen its relative character. Through this lexicographic study of French dictionaries, adefinition for "zone calme" can be proposed. However, depending on the words used to translate "quiet areas" in the European directive,the definition is not the same. So, ac omparison between translations of the directive in different European languages wasc arried out. This exploratory analysis then raises the problem of the definition of "quiet areas" before trying to findcharacterizing indicators as suggested in the European directive. PACS no. 43.50.Rq, 43.50.Ba 734 ©S.Hirzel Verlag · EAA Delaitre et al.:F rench calme -Alexicographic study ACTA ACUSTICA UNITED WITH ACUSTICA Vol. 98 (2012)

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