German word

begeistern

Pronunciation

IPA/bəˈgaɪ̯stɐn/

Meaning

  • verbfascinate

Example

Dieses Spiel begeistert viele Kinder.

This game fascinates many children.

Illustration for begeistern (fascinate)

More examples

Viele Schüler begeistern sich für klassische Musik.

Many students are enthusiastic about classical music.

Core concept

A spark of enthusiasm catches in someone, or a person passes that excitement on to others.

Common phrases

  • sich begeistern für

    be enthusiastic about

  • jemanden begeistern

    enthuse someone

Similar words

interessieren: To spark interest and make someone want to know more.
beeindrucken: To make a strong impression that inspires admiration or respect.
faszinieren: To captivate someone through compelling appeal or a sense of wonder.
mitreißen: To sweep someone along through contagious energy and excitement.

Definition in German

bei jemandem starke Freude oder Bewunderung für etwas auslösen; auch reflexiv: sich für etwas begeistern.

Word origin

Begeistern is formed from Geist, meaning spirit or mind, with the prefix be- and the verb-forming ending -ern, originally referring to filling someone with spirit.

Usage tips

  • The transitive pattern is jemanden begeistern, while the reflexive pattern is sich für etwas begeistern with für plus the object of enthusiasm.

Other meanings

  • inspireverb
  • enthuseverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word