German word

edel

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈeːdl̩/

Meaning

  • adjectivenoble

Example

Sie stammt aus einer edlen Familie.

She comes from a noble family.

Illustration for edel (noble)

More examples

Das Kleid sieht edel aus.

The dress looks elegant.

Core concept

A dignified figure whose bearing, conduct, or quality rises above the ordinary.

Common phrases

  • Das ist edel von dir

    That is noble of you

  • Das Kleid sieht edel aus

    The dress looks elegant

Similar words

adelig: Of aristocratic birth or descended from a noble family.
vornehm: Distinguished by refined manners, appearance, and social formality.
nobel: Tasteful, elegant, and impressively sophisticated.
würdig: Deserving respect because of dignity, value, or honorable qualities.

Definition in German

von hoher Herkunft oder vornehmer Gesinnung; respektgebietend

Word origin

Edel comes from Old High German edili and is related to Adel, ultimately reflecting a Germanic root associated with lineage and noble status.

Usage tips

  • Edel describes noble character or quality, whereas adelig specifically describes aristocratic birth or ancestry.

Other meanings

  • uprightadjective
  • elegantadjective
  • preciousadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • veredelnennobleverb
  • Edelsteingemstonenoun

Word lists with this word