German word

Zimmermann

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtsɪmɐˌman/

Meaning

  • masculine nouncarpenter

Example

Wir brauchen zwei Zimmermänner für den Umbau.

We need two carpenters for the renovation.

Illustration for Zimmermann (carpenter)

More examples

Er hat eine Lehre als Zimmermann begonnen.

He has started an apprenticeship as a carpenter.

Core concept

A woodworker turns beams and boards into the roof, frame, and other structural parts of a building.

Common phrases

  • eine Lehre als Zimmermann machen

    serve an apprenticeship as a carpenter

  • bei einem Zimmermann lernen

    learn under a carpenter

Similar words

Zimmerer: A carpenter specializing in wooden building frames, roofs, and structural work.
Bauarbeiter: A construction worker who performs general building and civil engineering tasks.
Tischler: A woodworker who makes furniture, doors, and other detailed interior items.
Handwerker: A skilled tradesperson who makes or repairs things by hand.

Definition in German

Ein Berufsbegriff für jemanden, der aus Holz Bauteile fertigt und tragende Holzkonstruktionen für Gebäude baut.

Word origin

The occupational noun is a compound of Zimmer and Mann, with Zimmer referring historically to a building or its rooms rather than only to a modern room.

Usage tips

  • Zimmerer is also a standard German occupational term for this trade, especially in regions where it is preferred to Zimmermann.

Related words

  • Zimmermannshandwerkcarpentry tradenoun
  • Zimmermannsmeistermaster carpenternoun

Word lists with this word