German word

Hilfswerk

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈhɪlfsˌvɛɐ̯k/

Meaning

  • neuter nounaid organization

Example

Nach dem Erdbeben kamen viele Hilfswerke, um zu helfen.

After the earthquake, many aid organizations came to help.

Illustration for Hilfswerk (aid organization)

More examples

Das Hilfswerk schickte medizinische Teams in die betroffene Region.

The aid organization sent medical teams to the affected region.

Core concept

An organized relief body that channels money, supplies, or practical help to people in need.

Common phrases

  • internationales Hilfswerk

    international aid organization

  • ein Hilfswerk unterstützen

    support an aid organization

  • Spenden an ein Hilfswerk

    donations to an aid organization

Similar words

Hilfsorganisation: An organization mobilizing donations and staff for disaster response and poverty relief.
Hilfe: The general act or idea of helping people who are in difficulty.
Stiftung: An organization that holds funds for a specific purpose and finances social projects.
Wohlfahrtsverband: An association of welfare groups providing coordinated support and public services.

Definition in German

Ein meist formell organisiertes, gemeinnütziges Unternehmen oder ein Verband, der Hilfe für Bedürftige leistet.

Word origin

Hilfswerk combines the stem Hilfs- from Hilfe or helfen with Werk, meaning a work, enterprise, or organization.

Usage tips

  • Hilfswerk is a neuter noun, das Hilfswerk, with the plural die Hilfswerke, and its formal register suits established aid organizations more than casual help.

Other meanings

  • relief organizationnoun
  • charitynoun

Word lists with this word