German word

Major

Pronunciation

IPA/maˈjoːɐ̯/

Meaning

  • masculine nounmajor

Example

Ich habe den Major gestern gesehen.

I saw the major yesterday.

Illustration for Major (major)

More examples

Er wurde letzte Woche zum Major ernannt.

He was appointed major last week.

Core concept

A professional officer who stands between the familiar captain and lieutenant-colonel levels in a military chain of command.

Common phrases

  • als Major fungieren

    serve as a major

  • zum Major ernannt werden

    be appointed major

Similar words

Hauptmann: An officer leading troops and managing the day-to-day affairs of a small or medium-sized unit.
Leutnant: An entry-level officer responsible for leadership and practical work in a squad or platoon.
Oberstleutnant: A senior field officer overseeing command or staff work at regimental level.
Oberst: A senior commander directing large formations or playing a central role in operations.

Definition in German

ein militärischer Dienstgrad, der in der Rangordnung zwischen Hauptmann und Oberstleutnant steht und einen Offizier mittleren Ranges bezeichnet

Word origin

The rank name developed from Latin maior, the comparative form of magnus meaning "greater," and entered German through French.

Usage tips

  • German Major refers to a military rank, not to a university subject or academic specialization as English "major" can.

Related words

  • Majorinfemale majornoun

Word lists with this word