German word

Läufer

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈlɔɪ̯fɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounrunner

Example

Der Läufer gewann das Rennen.

The runner won the race.

Illustration for Läufer (runner)

More examples

Als Läufer achte ich auf eine gute Atmung.

As a runner, I focus on breathing properly.

Core concept

Something defined by travel along a line: a runner on a course, a bishop moving diagonally across a chessboard, or a rug extending through a room.

Common phrases

  • als Läufer

    as a runner

  • erfahrener Läufer

    experienced runner

Similar words

Sprinter: An athlete who runs short distances at very high speed.
Jogger: A person who runs slowly for exercise or relaxation.
Athlet: An athlete who competes in sports using strength or skill.
Teppichläufer: A long, narrow rug laid along a hallway or similar space.

Definition in German

Person oder Tier, das läuft; besonders eine Person, die an einem Rennen teilnimmt.

Word origin

The noun Läufer comes from laufen, 'to run', plus -er; the bishop sense reflects the piece's movement, while the rug sense reflects its long, directional shape.

Usage tips

  • In chess, der Läufer means 'bishop', so the intended sense depends strongly on context such as a race or a chess game.

Other meanings

  • bishopnoun
  • rugnoun

Related words

  • Läuferinfemale runnernoun
  • laufendongoingadjective

Word lists with this word