German word

kompakt

Pronunciation

IPA/kɔmˈpakt/

Meaning

  • adjectivecompact

Example

Das neue Handy ist kompakt und leicht.

The new mobile phone is compact and lightweight.

Illustration for kompakt (compact)

More examples

Die Kamera ist kompakt gebaut und trotzdem leistungsstark.

The camera is compactly built and yet highly powerful.

Core concept

A tightly filled container stays small while retaining everything essential.

Common phrases

  • kompakt gebaut

    compactly built

  • kompaktes Design

    compact design

  • kompaktes Gerät

    compact device

Similar words

klein: Limited in overall size or volume.
handlich: Easy to hold and carry because of its manageable size and shape.
platzsparend: Made to take up minimal space when placed or stored.
prägnant: Expressing the main points briefly and clearly.

Definition in German

Dicht gepackt und deshalb klein im Umfang; auch kurz und prägnant im Ausdruck.

Word origin

The German adjective was borrowed from Latin compactus, the past participle of compingere, meaning to join or pack together.

Usage tips

  • For a text, presentation, or explanation, kompakt usually means concise and well condensed rather than merely short in length.

Other meanings

  • conciseadjective

Opposites

  • sperrigbulkyadjective

Related words

  • Kompaktheitcompactnessnoun
  • Kompaktformatcompact formatnoun

Word lists with this word