baraque — SHABBY HOUSE

[BAH-rha-KK] (n. f.) In the late 18th century, a young Napoleon was given command of the French forces in Italy. He gave them a speech in which he acknowledged their sacrifices. "Soldiers, you are naked, ill fed," he said, "You have made (...) forced marches without shoes, camped without brandy and often without bread." He should have mentioned the shoddy barracks soldiers often slept it, these musty, provisory huts they put together for camps. The French word baraque, technically still means temporary constructions but less in the military realm and, rather, refers to a building that won't last long because it's flimsy and poorly made.

coup — BLOW

[coo] (n. m.) Regime changes in exotic countries are not often peaceful affairs and the bloodshed is either ignored by the new leaders or dismissed as necessary evil means to a better end. Whatever the case, it's a strike and blows are often exchanged. The more brutal of these regime changes are known as coup d'état, which is French for blow of the state. Makes sense, no?

ballon — BALL

[BA-lun] (n. m.) If you can't take the French seriously, then you won't be surprised to know that their word for ball is thisclose to a child's colorful balloon. Yes, those brawny rugbymen play with a ballon de rugby, and footballers (when they are not headbutting) play with a ballon de foot, or soccer ball.