German word

Mobile

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmoːbiˌleː/

Meaning

  • neuter nounmobile

Example

Ich hänge das Mobile an die Decke.

I am hanging the mobile from the ceiling.

Illustration for Mobile (mobile)

More examples

Ein buntes Mobile aus Papier hängt über dem Wickeltisch.

A colorful paper mobile hangs above the changing table.

Core concept

A suspended arrangement of light parts responds to air currents with continuous, delicate motion above a room.

Common phrases

  • Mobile aus Papier

    paper mobile

  • buntes Mobile

    colorful mobile

  • sich drehendes Mobile

    spinning mobile

Similar words

Handy: A mobile phone or smartphone in everyday speech.
Dekoration: An object used to make a room or item look more attractive.
Windspiel: A hanging ornament that moves in the wind and may make sounds.
Möbel: Indoor furnishings such as tables, chairs, and cupboards.

Definition in German

Unter einem Mobile versteht man ein an Schnüren oder Stäben aufgehängtes Gebilde aus leichten Teilen, das durch Luftzug in anhaltende Bewegung gerät.

Word origin

Mobile is a German borrowing of French mobile, ultimately derived from Latin mobilis, an adjective meaning movable.

Usage tips

  • German uses Mobile for the hanging object, while English mobile usually refers to a telephone or something capable of movement.

Word lists with this word