German word

Schirmherr

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʃɪɐ̯mˌhɛɐ̯/

Meaning

  • masculine nounpatron

Example

Er ist der Schirmherr des Festivals.

He is the patron of the festival.

Illustration for Schirmherr (patron)

More examples

Die Universität hat ihn als Schirmherr der Veranstaltung benannt.

The university appointed him patron of the event.

Core concept

A respected figure holds an umbrella over a public project, lending it protection and prestige without directing its practical work.

Common phrases

  • offizieller Schirmherr

    official patron

  • als Schirmherr benannt

    appointed as patron

  • Schirmherr einer Initiative

    patron of an initiative

Similar words

Sponsor: A person or company that supports an event with money or goods.
Förderer: A person or organization that supports research or culture through funding or institutional help.
Gönner: A person who gives financial help to others or organizations out of personal goodwill.
Patron: A long-term supporter who protects and promotes the arts or an organization.

Definition in German

Eine meist repräsentative oder ehrenamtliche Person, die einem Projekt offiziell als Ehrenleitung vorsteht, aber nicht zwingend praktische Aufgaben übernimmt.

Word origin

Schirmherr combines Schirm, meaning protective cover, with Herr, meaning lord or master, and forms a title for symbolic protection or patronage.

Usage tips

  • Schirmherr usually denotes ceremonial or representative patronage, so it does not necessarily mean a person who finances the project.

Other meanings

  • sponsornoun
  • protectornoun

Opposites

  • Widersacheradversarynoun
  • Gegneropponentnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word