German word

Wirtin

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈvɪɐ̯tɪn/

Meaning

  • feminine nouninnkeeper

Example

Ich kenne die Wirtin schon lange.

I have known the innkeeper for a long time.

Illustration for Wirtin (innkeeper)

More examples

Die Wirtin des Dorfgasthofs leitete den Betrieb seit Jahren.

The landlady of the village inn has been running the business for years.

Core concept

A female proprietor keeps an eating and drinking place running, from the guest room to the counter.

Common phrases

  • die langjährige Wirtin eines Landgasthofs

    the long-serving landlady of a country inn

  • eine neue Wirtin im Ort

    a new innkeeper in town

  • die Wirtin des Dorfgasthofs

    the landlady of the village inn

Similar words

Wirt: A man in charge of an inn or other place serving food and drinks.
Gastwirtin: A woman managing an inn or dining house that offers lodging and meals.
Gastgeberin: A woman who welcomes guests and provides hospitality at home or events.
Kellnerin: A woman employed to serve food and drinks in a restaurant.

Definition in German

Eine Frau, die eine Gaststätte, Kneipe oder ein Gasthaus betreibt und Gäste bewirtet.

Word origin

The word combines Wirt, an old Germanic term for a host or innkeeper, with -in, a productive suffix for feminine person nouns.

Usage tips

  • Wirtin usually identifies the woman in charge of the establishment rather than simply a female server; Bedienung is more general for service staff.

Other meanings

  • landladynoun
  • hostessnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • Wirtinnkeepernoun
  • Bewirtunghospitalitynoun

Word lists with this word