Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mal-du-pays

Noun

/mɑːl duː ˈpeɪ/

Definition

A feeling of longing for one’s native land; homesickness.

Examples

After living abroad for several years, she experienced a strong mal-du-pays that made her feel disconnected from her roots.
His mal-du-pays intensified during the holidays when he was reminded of family gatherings back home.

Meaning

Mal-du-pays is a French term that describes the emotional pain or discomfort one feels when away from home, particularly when missing the familiar sights, sounds, and culture of their native place.