German word

Spaß

Pronunciation

IPA/ʃpaːs/

Meaning

  • masculine nounfun

Example

Der Spaß macht das Lernen leichter.

Fun makes learning easier.

Illustration for Spaß (fun)

More examples

Wir hatten gestern viel Spaß beim Spiel.

We had lots of fun at the game yesterday.

Core concept

A light-hearted activity or moment that brings enjoyment and may also prompt laughter.

Common phrases

  • Spaß haben

    have fun

  • Viel Spaß

    have lots of fun

  • zum Spaß

    for fun

Similar words

Unterhaltung: Something enjoyable, such as a conversation, show, or other pastime.
Scherz: A short joke or playful act that lightens the mood.
Vergnügen: A settled sense of pleasure and contentment.
Freude: A warm feeling of genuine happiness or delight.

Definition in German

Spaß ist Freude oder Vergnügen, besonders eine unterhaltsame Tätigkeit oder ein heiterer Moment.

Word origin

The German noun Spaß continues Middle High German spāz, whose senses included jest and amusement, with the modern enjoyment sense developing from that range.

Usage tips

  • The usual patterns are Spaß haben for having fun and Spaß machen for being enjoyable or entertaining.

Other meanings

  • jokenoun

Opposites

Related words

  • spaßigamusingadjective
  • Spaßvogeljokernoun

Word lists with this word