German word

Burg

Pronunciation

IPA/bʊʁk/

Meaning

  • feminine nouncastle

Example

Viele Burgen stehen noch auf dem Hügel.

Many castles still stand on the hill.

Illustration for Burg (castle)

More examples

Ich mache ein Foto von der Burg.

I am taking a photo of the castle.

Core concept

A medieval hilltop castle protects its residents behind heavy stone walls while serving as their home.

Common phrases

  • ein Foto von der Burg machen

    take a photo of the castle

  • vor der Burg stehen

    stand in front of the castle

Similar words

Schloss: A large, elegant noble residence designed mainly for comfort, ceremony, and display.
Festung: A military fortress built chiefly for defense, with troops and weapons stationed inside.

Definition in German

Eine befestigte, meist mittelalterliche Anlage aus Stein, oft auf einem Hügel gelegen, die zur Verteidigung diente und zugleich als Wohnsitz des Adels fungierte.

Word origin

The German noun Burg is an inherited Germanic word related to English borough and originally denoted an enclosed fortified place.

Usage tips

  • Schloss usually emphasizes a grand residence, while Festung emphasizes military fortification; Burg can cover both functions.

Related words

  • Burgmuseumcastle museumnoun

Word lists with this word