German Conversation · Level 10
89 words
German word
Kissen
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈkɪsn̩/
Meaning
- neuter nounpillow
Example
Auf dem Bett liegen zwei Kissen.
There are two pillows on the bed.
More examples
Er legte den Kopf auf das Kissen und atmete tief ein.
He laid his head on the pillow and took a deep breath.
Core concept
A fabric-covered bundle of soft filling used under the head or placed on a sofa or chair.
Common phrases
den Kopf auf das Kissen legen
lay one's head on the pillow
das Kissen wechseln
change the pillow
Similar words
Kopfkissen: A large sleeping pillow that supports the head and neck.
Sofakissen: A decorative cushion for resting against on a sofa or chair.
Nackenkissen: A small pillow shaped or firm enough to support the neck.
Polster: Thick cushioning fitted into a chair or sofa seat to improve comfort.
Definition in German
Ein weiches, meist rechteckiges Polster, das man zum Schlafen oder zur Dekoration auf Möbeln benutzt.
Word origin
The modern German form continues Old High German kussi and Middle High German küsse, older words for a stuffed support.
Usage tips
- Kissen covers both pillow and cushion, while compounds such as Kopfkissen and Sofakissen specify the intended use.
Other meanings
- cushionnoun
Related words
- Seitenschläferkissenside-sleeper pillownoun
- Kopfkissenbezugpillowcasenoun