German word

Pfosten

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpfɔstn̩/

Meaning

  • masculine nounpost

Example

Der Pfosten steht neben dem Zaun.

The post stands beside the fence.

Illustration for Pfosten (post)

More examples

Bevor wir den Zaun errichten, müssen wir einen Pfosten einschlagen.

Before we erect the fence, we must drive in a post.

Core concept

A sturdy vertical post stands beside a boundary and carries something attached to it.

Common phrases

  • einen Pfosten einschlagen

    drive in a post

  • einen Pfosten setzen

    set a post

  • am Pfosten befestigen

    attach to the post

Similar words

Pfahl: A narrow support pile driven far into the ground beneath a structure.
Pfeiler: A broad, strong pillar carrying the load of a bridge or building.
Mast: A high upright mast carrying ship equipment or electric lines.
Poller: A short, robust bollard placed to stop vehicles on roads or in ports.

Definition in German

Ein Pfosten ist ein kurzer, meist senkrecht im Boden stehender Stab oder Pfahl, der Zäune, Geländer oder Schilder trägt.

Word origin

Pfosten developed from Middle High German pfoste, borrowed from Latin postis for a post or upright support.

Usage tips

  • German Pfosten usually means a physical support post, while English post can also mean a job, a mailing item, or written content.

Other meanings

  • stakenoun

Related words

  • Zaunpfostenfence postnoun
  • Eckpfostencorner postnoun
  • Pfostenhalterpost holdernoun

Word lists with this word