What does spiel mean?
A spiel is a game, particularly a computer game. Although the word was once fairly common, modern English speakers usually prefer terms such as game, video game, or computer game. Its use can nevertheless be effective in nostalgic, humorous, or deliberately old-fashioned writing, especially when referring to early computer games. More broadly, the word can denote a contest or match, though this sense is less common and may sound literary or old-fashioned. A spiel should not be confused with a spill, which concerns liquid or loose material being released accidentally or deliberately. The term comes from German, in which Spiel continues to be the ordinary word for a game.
nounA game, especially a computer game. The term is now uncommon and usually has an informal or nostalgic tone.
- A game, especially a computer game.
- A game or contest in a general sense.
"They stayed up late playing the new computer spiel."
"The group gathered around for an evening of computer spiels."
"Opening the tournament with a quick spiel set an energetic tone."
The plural is used for multiple games, particularly computer games.
"They traded lists of their favorite old spiels."
English borrowed this word from German, where it still simply means “game” — a reminder that once-familiar computing vocabulary can sound surprisingly old-fashioned.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spiel come from?
English borrowed the word from German Spiel, meaning “game” or “play.” German and English forms ultimately belong to the same Germanic word family, with related words in Dutch and Swedish and a cognate in English play. The borrowing entered English as a general term for a game and was later especially associated with computer games.
How spiel is actually used
The word is uncommon in contemporary English and often sounds dated, informal, or intentionally nostalgic. It is mainly encountered in discussion of computer games and may be marked as nonstandard in some contexts.
Easily confused with spiel
A spiel is a game, whereas a spill is an accidental or intentional release of a liquid or its contents.