A French annuity, also known as a rente, is a financial instrument that provides a regular income for a fixed period of time. It is typically used as an investment or retirement plan, and is paid out in regular installments over the course of the annuity's duration. The payments are usually based on the performance of the underlying asset, such as a bond or stock. The term rente is derived from the French word for 'RENT, ' which is indicative of the regular payments associated with the annuity.