noun
- an ancient region in W Europe, including the modern areas of N Italy, France, Belgium, and the S Netherlands: consisted of two main divisions, one part S of the Alps (Cisalpine Gaul) and another part N of the Alps (Transalpine Gaul).
- Latin Gallia. a province of the ancient Roman Empire, including the territory corresponding to modern France, Belgium, the S Netherlands, Switzerland, N Italy, and Germany W of the Rhine.
- an inhabitant of the ancient region of Gaul.
- a native or inhabitant of France.
noun
- an ancient region of W Europe corresponding to N Italy, France, Belgium, part of Germany, and the S Netherlands: divided into Cisalpine Gaul, which became a Roman province before 100 bc, and Transalpine Gaul, which was conquered by Julius Caesar (58–51 bc)Latin name: Gallia
- a native of ancient Gaul
- a Frenchman
1560s, from French Gaule, from Latin Gallia, from Gallus “a Gaul.” Also used somewhat facetiously for “a Frenchman.” Gauloise, popular brand of French cigarettes, dates to 1910.