German word

gestalten

Pronunciation

IPA/gəˈʃtaltən/

Meaning

  • verbshape

Example

Wir gestalten unsere Zukunft.

We shape our future.

Illustration for gestalten (shape)

More examples

Ich gestalte den Tag mit kurzen Pausen.

I shape the day with short breaks.

Core concept

A person deliberately arranges separate elements into a coherent form, such as a plan, space, or future.

Common phrases

  • gestalten den Tag

    shape the day

  • gestalten die Wohnung

    design the apartment

Similar words

machen: To make or do something in a general, nonspecific sense.
planen: To think ahead about the steps and method needed to reach a goal.
einrichten: To arrange furniture or equipment so a room or place is ready to use.

Definition in German

etwas gezielt in eine bestimmte Form bringen oder strukturieren

Word origin

Gestalten is derived from Gestalt, the German noun for form or shape, with the verb ending -en.

Usage tips

  • Gestalten is broader than English design and commonly applies to abstract objects such as a life, relationship, or future.

Other meanings

  • designverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Gestaltungdesignnoun
  • gestalterischdesign-relatedadjective

Word lists with this word