German Words
The year before kids enter first grade, they attend this
What is kindergarten? It translates to “garden for children.” Kindergarten was first introduced in Germany in the early 19th century. Those who fled Germany in 1948 brought the idea to the United States
Oktoberfest is celebrated every year spanning these two fall months.
What are September and October? It starts in September and runs through the first weekend in October.
This twentieth-century physicist and mathematician is best known for his theory of relativity.
Who is (Albert) Einstein? He won the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1921. He was once asked to be the president of Israel, but he declined. He felt he was not qualified for the position.
This once-divided city is the capital of Germany
What is Berlin? It’s a bustling city, which was once divided by the Berlin Wall into East Berlin and West Berlin until the reunification of East and West Germany in 1990. The Brandenburg Gate at the Berlin Wall became the symbol of a divided Germany
Typical round lettuce used in sandwiches or what brought down the Titanic. It translates to “mountain of ice.”
What is iceberg? We often hear that iceberg lettuce is devoid of any nutritional value; however, it has more protein than many other lettuce varieties, and it contains vitamins A and K, folate, and potassium.
It is the traditional alcoholic beverage served at Oktoberfest.
What is beer (or similar)? Beer produced in Germany is darker and stronger than traditional North American beer. Beer made in Munich’s breweries are the only ones served during the festival
This theologian’s words were the catalyst for the 16th-century reformation that swept through the Protestant Church
Who is Martin Luther? He left the study of law to adopt a monastic life.
This high mountain range in Germany is often associated with Switzerland.
What is the Alps? The Alps mountain range crosses seven countries: France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Germany, Liechtenstein, and Slovenia. In Germany, the range is called the Bavarian Alps since it is in Bavaria at the southern tip of the country
It is German for thank you, and it is the first word of the song made famous by Wayne Newton.
What is danke (DON kuh)? Wayne Newton’s rendition of the song “Danke Shoen” (DON kuh SHAYN) made it to No.13 on the Billboard chart in 1963.
This is the traditional outfit worn by women—a dress with a defined bodice and low neckline, a tight waist, and a gathered skirt.
What is dirndl (DERN duhl)? The position of the bow signifies the wearer’s relationship status. The bow is tied on the right for those in a relationship and on the left for singles. Young girls tie the bow in the middle
This German developed a mechanical printing press named for him.
Who is (Johannes) Gutenberg? The first printing press was created in China sometime during the first millennium AD, but 150 years later, Gutenberg perfected it for commercial use.
It is the capital of the state of Bavaria and begins with the letter M.
It is the capital of the state of Bavaria and begins with the letter M
A five-letter word beginning with A that means “fear” and is spelled the same way in German and English. Also means “apprehension and uneasiness.”
What is angst? Televised sporting events, yoga, and meditation can help provide relief from day-to-day angst.
The first Oktoberfest was held in celebration of this event
What is a wedding or marriage? It was held to celebrate Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Teresa. The entire city of Munich was invited to the event.
This philosopher, physician, and theologian spent much of his life as a mission doctor in Africa, opened a leper colony while there, and won the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize
Who is (Albert) Schweitzer? He was also an accomplished musician, performing across Europe.
It is Germany’s largest river
What is the Rhine? In the west, the Rhine separates Germany from France.