Updated on October 8, 2024
20 German words used in English
English and German are practically siblings. They both stem from the same Germanic language family, which also includes Norwegian and Danish. Despite its shared lineage with German, modern English has branched away from its Germanic roots and evolved into a unique blend of many languages, including Latin, French and Spanish.
But quite a few English words still evince German origins. You might already know that words like “Gesundheit” and “Kindergarten” come from German, but you might be surprised to learn that “Hamburger” and “Rucksack” are also borrowed from German. Let’s dive into the fascinating ways German has shaped the English vocabulary.
Origin: The English word “kindergarten” comes directly from the German words Kinder (children) and Garten (garden). It was first coined by German pedagogue Friedrich Fröbel in the 19th century to describe his vision for early childhood education, which involved play and activity-based learning environments.
Example: “My youngest child just started kindergarten, and she’s already bringing home colorful crafts and stories each day.”
Origin: The English word “wanderlust” is formed from the German words wandern (to hike or roam) and Lust (desire), reflecting a strong desire to travel and explore the world. It was adopted into English usage in the early 20th century.
Example: “Feeling a surge of wanderlust, he booked a one-way ticket to Berlin, eager to immerse himself in its rich history and vibrant culture.”
Origin: “Schadenfreude” combines the words Schaden (harm) and Freude (joy), and it describes pleasure derived from someone else’s misfortune. This compound word reflects a unique concept with no direct English translation, so it’s no surprise that it was picked up by English speakers in the 19th century.
Example: “I couldn’t help feeling a bit of schadenfreude when I heard that the corrupt CEO’s company was failing.”
Origin: “Zeitgeist” is a compound of Zeit (time) and Geist (spirit or ghost). It refers to the spirit or mood of a particular period as captured by ideas, culture and beliefs. It was first used in English in the 19th century.
Example: “The film captured the zeitgeist of the early 2000s perfectly, reflecting the era’s tensions and hopes.”
Origin: The term “doppelgänger” combines the German words doppel (double) and Gänger (walker or goer) to form a compound noun that was often used in German folklore to describe a ghostly double of a living person. It was integrated into English in the 19th century, highlighting the universal fascination with doubles and look-alikes.
Example: “When I moved to the new city, I was surprised to meet someone who was my doppelgänger; we even shared the same birthday!”
Origin: “Gesundheit,” meaning health, is used in German as a wish for good health after someone sneezes, similar to the English exclamation, “Bless you!”. It entered English-speaking use in areas with high German immigration, particularly in the United States.
Example: “When he sneezed during the meeting, everyone reflexively said, ‘Gesundheit!’.
Origin: Combining the German words poltern (to make noise) and Geist (ghost), “poltergeist” refers to a noisy ghost known for causing disturbances such as moving objects or loud sounds. This term was adopted into English in the 19th century.
Example: “The old mansion was said to be haunted by a poltergeist, who would toss books from shelves and bang the walls at night.”
In English, “angst” is used to describe an intense feeling of apprehension, anxiety or inner turmoil.
Originally meaning “lightning” in German, “blitz” is a word used in English to describe a sudden, intense military attack, or any swift and vigorous action.
A word used in English to describe something that is broken or ruined, “kaputt” derives from the German word meaning the same.
“Strudel” refers to a type of sweet or savory layered pastry with a filling that is rolled up and baked. It’s popular in German and Austrian cuisines.
Though not directly borrowed, the German term die Weltanschauung inspired the English word “worldview,” which refers to the comprehensive philosophy of an individual or group.
Referencing the northern German city of Hamburg, this word refers to a ground beef patty that’s typically served in a bun.
A pretzel is a type of baked pastry that is twisted into a unique knot-like shape, which originated in Germany.
Adopted into English from the German word for a strip or lump of dough, “noodle” is typically used to refer exclusively to pasta.
A pilsner is a type of crisp, pale lager that takes its name from the Czech city of Pilsen. The word was first Germanized, then adopted into English.
A hard, crystalline mineral consisting of silicon dioxide, quartz is widely used in jewelry and electronic equipment.
From Delikatesse, meaning “delicacy,” this word refers to a shop or counter selling specialty foods.
Kitsch describes art, objects or designs considered to be in poor taste due to their excessive garishness or sentimentality. Sometimes, kitsch is celebrated in an ironic or knowing way.
“Rucksack” literally means “back bag” in German, and it can be used in English to describe more or less the same thing.
The impact of German on the English language is both profound and fascinating. These commonly borrowed German words not only enrich our vocabulary, but also highlight the interconnectedness of human cultures. As we continue to share ideas and words, our languages become more diverse and vibrant — proof that language is a living, evolving form of communication.
