German word

Arbeiter

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈaʁbaɪ̯tɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounworker

Example

Der Arbeiter ist müde.

The worker is tired.

Illustration for Arbeiter (worker)

More examples

Ich spreche mit dem Arbeiter.

I am speaking with the worker.

Core concept

A person earning a living through hands-on work, often in a factory, workshop, or building site.

Common phrases

  • mehrere Arbeiter

    several workers

  • der Arbeiter im Betrieb

    the worker at the company

  • ein Arbeiter am Förderband

    a worker at the conveyor belt

Similar words

Mitarbeiter: A person working for the same company or organization.
Kollege: A person working alongside others in the same workplace.
Angestellte: A salaried office or professional employee.
Beschäftigte: A person employed in a particular workplace or industry.

Definition in German

Beschäftigte, die vorwiegend praktische oder körperliche Aufgaben übernehmen.

Word origin

Arbeiter is formed from Arbeit, meaning work, with the agent suffix -er for a person who performs an activity.

Usage tips

  • Arbeiter often suggests manual or industrial work, while English worker is broader; Mitarbeiter or Arbeitnehmer can better fit an office employee.

Other meanings

  • laborernoun
  • workmannoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word