German is a language rich with history and culture, and it has been influenced by many other languages over the centuries. Many words in modern German are borrowed from other languages, and their origins might surprise you. Here are some German words with surprisingly foreign roots:
Kindergarten
This word, which refers to a preschool educational institution for children, actually comes from the German words “Kinder” meaning children and “Garten” meaning garden. However, the concept was popularized in the English-speaking world, making it a loanword that returned to its original language with a broader meaning.
Mein Sohn geht jetzt in den Kindergarten.
Delikatessen
From the French word “délicatesse,” meaning delicacy or fine food, this word has been borrowed into German as “Delikatessen,” referring to a shop or counter where fine foods are sold.
Ich kaufe meine Wurst immer in einer speziellen Delikatessen.
Dschungel
Originating from the Sanskrit word “jangala” meaning rough and arid, the word traveled through Hindi as “jangal” meaning wilderness, and then entered German as “Dschungel,” referring to a dense, tropical jungle.
Der Dschungel in Südamerika ist sehr dicht und schwer zu durchqueren.
Rucksack
While “Rucksack” might sound distinctly German, it’s actually derived from the English “back,” and “sack,” reflecting the item’s use and form. In German, it refers to a backpack.
Ich packe meinen Rucksack für die Wanderung morgen.
Ansatz
This word, which can mean approach or attachment in a musical or mathematical context, comes from the French “ansatz,” which itself is derived from the German “ansetzen” meaning to start or set about. The migration of contexts and meanings across languages showcases the fluidity of linguistic exchange.
Der Mathematiker erklärt den Ansatz seiner Theorie.
Keks
Borrowed from the English word “cakes,” the German “Keks,” usually refers to a crisp, sweet biscuit. The plural form is “Kekse,” indicating more than one.
Zum Tee gibt es heute Nachmittag Kekse.
Poltergeist
Coming from “poltern” (to rumble or make noise) and “Geist” (ghost), this term describes a ghost that makes noise or causes disturbances. It was adopted into English and other languages, retaining the same meaning.
Sie glauben, dass ein Poltergeist in ihrem Haus ist.
Schadenfreude
Although this word is purely German, it has been adopted into English and other languages without translation. It means the pleasure derived by someone from another person’s misfortune.
Er konnte seine Schadenfreude nicht verbergen, als sein Rivale stolperte.
Zeitgeist
Another German word that has been adopted into English, “Zeitgeist” means the defining spirit or mood of a particular period of history as shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time.
Der Film fängt den Zeitgeist der 80er Jahre perfekt ein.
Blitzkrieg
A military term that entered numerous other languages, including English, “Blitzkrieg” combines “Blitz” (lightning) and “Krieg” (war) to describe an intense, fast-paced military attack that intends to bring about a swift victory.
Der Blitzkrieg war eine häufig verwendete Strategie im Zweiten Weltkrieg.
Wanderlust
Derived from “wandern” (to hike) and “Lust” (desire), this word describes a strong desire to travel and explore the world. It has been widely adopted in English-speaking countries.
Ihre Wanderlust führt sie dieses Jahr nach Südamerika.
The influence of other languages on German is evident in these words, each carrying its unique story of linguistic journey and cultural exchange. This blend of languages not only enriches German but also creates bridges between cultures, making it an intriguing subject for linguistic studies.
