German word

Seil

Pronunciation

IPA/zaɪ̯l/

Meaning

  • neuter nounrope

Example

Für das Boot brauchen wir ein Seil.

We need a rope for the boat.

Illustration for Seil (rope)

More examples

Die Schauspieler hingen an dünnen Seilen über der Bühne.

The actors hung from thin ropes above the stage.

Core concept

A flexible, load-bearing strand used like a lifeline, towline, tie, or securing line.

Common phrases

  • ein langes Seil

    a long rope

  • das Seil durchtrennen

    cut through the rope

  • ein Seil spannen

    tension a rope

Similar words

Leine: A strong line fitted with a handle or clasp for leading a dog or securing a load.
Schnur: A light, thin cord made from twisted or braided fibers.
Strick: A thick, strong cord for binding things or pulling heavy loads.
Tau: A heavy, coarse rope built for ships and construction work.

Definition in German

Langes, festes Gebilde aus zusammengedrehten oder verflochtenen Fasern oder Drähten, das zum Binden, Ziehen oder Sichern von Gegenständen verwendet wird.

Word origin

The word Seil has been part of German since Old High German seil and reached its modern form through the regular history of German.

Usage tips

  • Schnur usually means a thinner cord, Leine a line for a particular use, and Tau a thick rope, while Seil is the broad everyday term.

Other meanings

  • cablenoun

Related words

  • Seilzugcable pullernoun
  • Seilendeend of a ropenoun

Word lists with this word