German word

cool

Pronunciation

IPA/kuːl/

Meaning

  • adjectivecool

Example

Das ist ein cooles Hemd.

That's a cool shirt.

Illustration for cool (cool)

More examples

Er bleibt immer cool, selbst in Stresssituationen.

He always stays cool, even in stressful situations.

Core concept

A relaxed presence that looks confident and appealing without trying too hard.

Common phrases

  • ein cooles Outfit

    a cool outfit

  • als cool gelten

    be considered cool

  • total cool

    totally cool

Similar words

lässig: Relaxed and informal, especially in clothing or overall style.
modisch: Up-to-date in fashion and stylish in appearance or design.
elegant: Polished, sophisticated, and suitable for a formal setting.
gepflegt: Well-groomed, tidy, and showing careful personal upkeep.

Definition in German

ruhig, selbstsicher und angesehen wirkend; als umgangssprachliches Lob verwendet.

Word origin

German adopted cool from English, which developed the figurative sense of emotional composure and stylish approval from the older sense 'cold'.

Usage tips

  • As a standalone interjection, Cool! commonly means 'Nice!' or 'Great!', but this use belongs mainly to informal speech.

Other meanings

  • calmadjective
  • niceinterjection

Opposites

  • uncooluncooladjective

Related words

  • Coolnesscoolnessnoun

Word lists with this word