German word

kühl

Pronunciation

IPA/kyːl/

Meaning

  • adjectivecool

Example

Im Schatten ist es kühl.

It is cool in the shade.

Illustration for kühl (cool)

More examples

Nach dem Sport trinke ich ein kühles Bier.

After exercising, I drink a cold beer.

Core concept

A person steps from warm sunlight into refreshing shade, with the same measured coolness applying to air, weather, and a composed mind.

Common phrases

  • ein kühles Bier

    a cold beer

  • ein kühles Zimmer

    a cool room

  • kühle Luft

    cool air

Similar words

kalt: Strongly cold against the skin, with warmer clothing likely needed.
frisch: Crisp and slightly cool, like fresh air in the morning or by the sea.

Definition in German

nicht warm; angenehm frisch; meist für Luft, Räume oder das Wetter verwendet

Word origin

Kühl is an inherited Germanic word related to English cool and develops from earlier German forms such as Old High German chuoli.

Usage tips

  • Kühl usually suggests mild or pleasant coolness, whereas kalt more readily suggests low temperature or discomfort.

Other meanings

  • chillyadjective
  • cool-headedadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • kühlencoolverb
  • die Kühlungcoolingnoun

Word lists with this word