What does german mean?
German is an English word that can function as an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, it describes anything connected with Germany, including its people, language, culture, government, geography, or institutions. As a noun, German can refer to a native or citizen of Germany, as in “a German politician,” or to the language spoken in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other German-speaking communities. In sentences such as “She speaks German,” the word identifies a language; in “a German restaurant,” it identifies a restaurant associated with Germany or German-speaking culture. The term is used in everyday, academic, historical, and political contexts and does not itself imply any political position. Its capitalization distinguishes these standard proper references from the common adjective germane, meaning relevant or appropriate. German is also culturally significant because German-speaking countries have contributed many English vocabulary words and have profoundly influenced European art, music, philosophy, and literature.
Of or relating to Germany, its people, language, culture, or institutions.
"The film explores contemporary German society."
Usually capitalized when referring to Germany or German-speaking people and their institutions.
A native or citizen of Germany; also, the German language.
"The conversation was conducted entirely in German."
The plural Germans is used for people. The singular German can also name the language, as in “German is widely spoken in Central Europe.”
The plural Germans refers to people from Germany. The language is called German and is not pluralized in the usual sense.
"Many Germans travel abroad during the summer."
German gave English words such as kindergarten, dachshund, and Volkswagen, so even its vocabulary has left a mark on everyday speech.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does german come from?
English borrowed the word through medieval French and Latin forms associated with Latin Germanus, meaning “of the Germans.” The name ultimately refers to the Germanic peoples and their language, and it underlies related forms such as Germanic and Germany. The adjective and noun uses developed in English from this older ethnolinguistic designation and were established in their modern senses by the early modern period.
Related word forms
How german is actually used
German is normally capitalized when referring to the country’s people, language, culture, or institutions. The plural Germans refers to people, while German is the name of the language and is not pluralized.
Easily confused with german
Germany is the country, while German is the adjective for the country and its people or the language they speak.
German relates to Germany or German-speaking people, whereas germane means relevant or appropriate to the matter at hand.