German word

Bürgermeister

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈbʏʁgɐˌmaɪ̯stɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounmayor

Example

Der Bürgermeister hält heute eine Rede.

The mayor is giving a speech today.

Illustration for Bürgermeister (mayor)

More examples

Man trifft den Bürgermeister oft im Rathaus.

You often see the mayor at city hall.

Core concept

A town-hall figure coordinating local services while speaking for the whole community.

Common phrases

  • als Bürgermeister arbeiten

    work as mayor

  • mit dem Bürgermeister sprechen

    speak with the mayor

Similar words

Bürgermeisterin: The title for a woman serving as mayor of a municipality.
Oberbürgermeister: The formal title for a mayor serving in a large city.

Definition in German

Die gewählte Führungsperson einer Gemeinde, verantwortlich für kommunale Verwaltung und repräsentative Aufgaben.

Word origin

The compound Bürgermeister combines Bürger, 'citizen', with Meister, a word that formerly also meant a leading or authoritative person.

Usage tips

  • Bürgermeister is masculine: der Bürgermeister, des Bürgermeisters, and die Bürgermeister in the plural.

Related words

Word lists with this word