German word

Vernissage

Pronunciation

IPA/vɛʁnɪˈsaːʒə/

Meaning

  • feminine nounpreview

Example

Wir waren auf der Vernissage der neuen Ausstellung.

We were at the preview of the new exhibition.

Illustration for Vernissage (preview)

More examples

Zur Vernissage kamen viele Sammler und Kritiker.

Many collectors and critics came to the exhibition preview.

Core concept

An early exhibition evening combining a first look at the artworks with a reception before the official opening.

Common phrases

  • auf der Vernissage

    at the exhibition preview

  • zur Vernissage gehen

    go to the exhibition preview

  • zur Vernissage einladen

    invite ___ to the exhibition preview

Similar words

Eröffnung: An official event marking the start of a ceremony or public occasion.
Empfang: A gathering where guests are welcomed and offered light refreshments.
Ausstellung: A public event displaying paintings or other works for visitors.

Definition in German

Vernissage nennt man die Präsentation von Werken kurz vor der offiziellen Eröffnung einer Ausstellung, oft begleitet von einem Empfang.

Word origin

The German noun was borrowed from French vernissage, which first referred to varnishing a painting before acquiring its exhibition-related meaning.

Usage tips

  • The plural of Vernissage is Vernissagen, not an English-style plural in -s.

Opposites

  • Finissageclosing ceremonynoun

Word lists with this word