filet mignon

noun

fi·​let mi·​gnon ˌfi-(ˌ)lā-mēn-ˈyōⁿ How to pronounce filet mignon (audio)
fi-ˌlā-, 
-mēn-ˈyän How to pronounce filet mignon (audio)
plural filets mignons ˌfi-(ˌ)lā-mēn-ˈyōⁿz How to pronounce filet mignon (audio)
fi-ˌlā-, 
-mēn-ˈyänz
: a thick slice of beef cut from the narrow end of a beef tenderloin

Examples of filet mignon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In general, filet mignon tastes best at medium-rare to medium doneness. — Sheena Chihak, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Apr. 2026 Someone who gobbles up a filet mignon and mashed potatoes like a rabid animal, that’s who. — Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026 One standout, the filet mignon pizza with blue cheese, has become something of a signature dish. — Christina Daves, Southern Living, 18 June 2026 Customers can find ribs, jerky, steaks including marbled ribeye, filet mignon, briskets, roasts, ground beef and tallow. — Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for filet mignon

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, dainty fillet

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of filet mignon was in 1835

Rhymes for filet mignon

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Browse Nearby Words

file-tail shark
filet mignon
fili-
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Cite this Entry

“Filet mignon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/filet%20mignon. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

filet mignon

noun
fi·​let mi·​gnon ˌfil-(ˌ)ā-mēn-ˈyän How to pronounce filet mignon (audio)
fi-ˌlā-
plural filets mignons -mēn-ˈyänz How to pronounce filet mignon (audio)
: a thick slice of beef cut from the narrow end of a tenderloin
Etymology

French, literally, "dainty fillet"

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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