This is the 6953rd most frequent French word.
madeleine
A small, shell-shaped sponge cake originating from France.
In this sentence, 'madeleine' refers to the traditional French pastry.
J'ai mangé une délicieuse madeleine avec mon thé.
I ate a delicious madeleine with my tea.
Here, 'madeleine' is used metaphorically, referencing Proust's work, symbolizing a trigger for nostalgic memories.
Cette vieille chanson est comme une madeleine de Proust.
This old song is like a Madeleine of Proust.
In this case, 'madeleine' signifies the pastry as a traditional treat prepared for special occasions.