German word

modern

Pronunciation

IPA/moˈdɛɐ̯n/

Meaning

  • adjectivemodern

Example

Das ist ein moderner Stil.

That is a modern style.

Illustration for modern (modern)

More examples

Die Wohnung ist modern eingerichtet.

The apartment is furnished in a modern style.

Core concept

A building, method, or style shaped for its own era rather than for an older tradition.

Common phrases

  • ein moderner Stil

    a modern style

  • modern eingerichtet

    furnished in a modern style

  • moderne Technik

    modern technology

Similar words

neu: Made or started only recently and therefore not old.
aktuell: Relevant to what is happening or being discussed at present.
zeitgemäß: Suitable for the present time and its prevailing attitudes or needs.
modisch: Styled according to the latest trends in appearance or expression.

Definition in German

auf die gegenwärtige Zeit bezogen; nicht altmodisch und oft mit neueren Merkmalen oder Lösungen verbunden

Word origin

The adjective modern entered German through French moderne and ultimately comes from Latin modernus, formed from modo, meaning just now.

Usage tips

  • Modern can describe something that is not new but still reflects current ideas, so it does not always translate as neu.

Other meanings

  • contemporaryadjective
  • fashionableadjective

Opposites

  • traditionelltraditionaladjective
  • altmodischold-fashionedadjective

Related words

Word lists with this word