German word

münden

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmʏndn̩/

Meaning

  • verbflow into

Example

Der Bach mündet in den Fluss.

The stream flows into the river.

Illustration for münden (flow into)

More examples

Die Gespräche münden schließlich in einer Entscheidung.

The discussions ultimately culminate in a decision.

Core concept

A smaller current runs toward a receiving channel and disappears into it at the point where the two courses meet.

Common phrases

  • münden in eine Entscheidung

    culminate in a decision

  • münden in die Praxis

    culminate in practical application

Similar words

fließen: To move steadily in a continuous current.
enden: To finish at a defined point or stage.
führen: To direct a process toward a destination or result.
zusammenlaufen: To gather from different directions into one course.

Definition in German

Etwas fließt an einen bestimmten Punkt und endet dort; das Wort wird vor allem für Gewässer gebraucht, kann aber auch im übertragenen Sinn 'in etwas enden' bedeuten.

Word origin

The verb comes from Middle High German münden and is related to Mund, 'mouth', reflecting the idea of a river reaching an outlet or opening.

Usage tips

  • The figurative pattern in etwas münden describes a process ending in a result and is more formal than many everyday alternatives.

Other meanings

  • lead toverb

Related words

Word lists with this word