German word

linke

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈlɪŋkə/

Meaning

  • adjectiveleft

Example

Die linke Hand tut weh.

The left hand hurts.

Illustration for linke (left)

More examples

Die linke Tasche des Rucksacks ist offen.

The left pocket of the backpack is open.

Core concept

The opposite side from the right, whether located beside a body, in a room, or on a political spectrum.

Common phrases

  • linke Hand

    left hand

  • linke Seite

    left side

Similar words

links: Toward or on the left side.
linkshändig: Mainly using the left hand for handling things or doing tasks.
rechts: Located on the right side of a body or object.

Definition in German

auf der linken Seite befindlich; zur linken Körper- oder Raumseite gehörig

Word origin

The German adjective is inherited through Old High German linca and Middle High German linc, both referring to the left.

Usage tips

  • Die Linke is the capitalized name of a German political party, while ordinary adjective uses remain lowercase.

Opposites

  • rechterightadjective

Related words

  • Linkeleft wingnoun
  • linksto the leftadverb

Word lists with this word