German word

Pfarrer

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpfaʁɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounpastor

Example

Der Pfarrer besucht die kranken Gemeindemitglieder.

The pastor visits sick members of the congregation.

Illustration for Pfarrer (pastor)

More examples

Am Sonntag predigt der Pfarrer in der Kirche.

On Sunday, the pastor preaches in the church.

Core concept

A local church leader at the center of worship, religious rites, and ongoing care for the congregation.

Common phrases

  • eine Predigt vom Pfarrer hören

    hear a sermon from the pastor

  • der örtliche Pfarrer

    the local pastor

  • eine Dankeskarte an den Pfarrer schreiben

    write a thank-you card to the pastor

Similar words

Pastor: A local pastor who preaches, provides counsel, and maintains close ties with residents.
Priester: A Catholic cleric who officially performs liturgical services and religious rites.
Seelsorger: A trusted counselor who helps people with personal and spiritual concerns.

Definition in German

Ein Pfarrer ist ein kirchlicher Amtsträger, der Gottesdienste abhält, religiöse Handlungen vornimmt und für die Gemeindearbeit zuständig ist.

Word origin

Pfarrer developed from Middle High German pharrære, an early borrowing from Latin parochus for a parish priest.

Usage tips

  • Pfarrer is masculine; the feminine form is Pfarrerin, and the plural of Pfarrer is Pfarrer.

Word lists with this word