German word

Loch

Pronunciation

IPA/lɔx/

Meaning

  • neuter nounhole

Example

Die Löcher im Zaun sind zu groß.

The holes in the fence are too large.

Illustration for Loch (hole)

More examples

Mein Reifen hat ein Loch.

There is a hole in my tire.

Core concept

A bounded empty spot in a surface, whether it passes through the material or only sinks into it.

Common phrases

  • ein Loch bohren

    bore a hole

  • ein Loch in der Jacke

    a hole in the jacket

  • ein Loch im Reifen

    a hole in the tire

Similar words

Öffnung: An open passage into or through an object or building.
Lücke: A fillable gap between things, periods of time, or pieces of information.
Spalt: A narrow, elongated gap in a surface or between parts.

Definition in German

Eine Öffnung oder Vertiefung in einer Fläche oder in einem Gegenstand.

Word origin

The modern form Loch developed through Middle High German loch from Old High German loh, preserving an old Germanic word for a hollow or opening.

Usage tips

  • In ein Loch marks movement into a hole, while in einem Loch marks location inside one.

Other meanings

  • gapnoun
  • depressionnoun

Opposites

  • Füllungfillingnoun
  • Verschlusssealnoun

Related words

  • löchernmake holes inverb
  • löchrigperforatedadjective
  • Lochungperforationnoun

Word lists with this word