What is the meaning of the alternative rock band's name Depeche Mode?

sequoianoir

It is a common mistake to assume that the name Depeche Mode is purely a translation from the French for 'fast fashion'. Where this error started is hard to establish and when music sites such as the All Music Guide still get it wrong (also used for Biographies on the now defunct CDNOW), it is easy to see why this error still perpetuates across hundreds of sites. depeche means dispatch (or update, message or news), mode means fashion. So Depeche Mode means Fashion News or Fashion Update. The confusion arises from someone remembering their high school French: the verb 'se depecher' means to hurry, which is probably where the 'fast' originates (thanks to Lawrence Koch for explaining the French translation and the source of the error). So, Depeche Mode is named after the magazine and that name roughly translates as Fashion News. Feb 04 03, 1:19 AM

Senior Moments

Brewer's Dictionary of Names - People and Places and Things adds that the group chosen name is of uncertain precise origin. It could mean' by telegram' in telegraphese, but is more reliably said to have been seen in a fashion magazine. Feb 04 03, 8:16 AM