German word

spitz

Pronunciation

IPA/ʃpɪt͡s/

Meaning

  • adjectivepointed

Example

Der spitze Bleistift schreibt gut.

The pointed pencil writes well.

Illustration for spitz (pointed)

More examples

Der Kritiker äußerte eine spitze Bemerkung.

The critic made a biting remark.

Core concept

A pointed object that can also feel sharp or hurtful when applied to speech.

Common phrases

  • eine spitze Bemerkung

    a biting remark

  • mit spitzer Zunge

    with a sharp tongue

  • spitze Fragen

    pointed questions

Similar words

scharf: Having a keen edge or a strong, piercing effect.
zugespitzt: Made more forceful and extreme in expression.

Definition in German

Eine Form, die zu einer feinen Spitze zuläuft; auch bildlich für scharfe oder verletzende Äußerungen.

Word origin

The adjective spitz continues Old High German spiz through Middle High German spiz or spitz, with Spitze as its related German noun.

Usage tips

  • German uses scharf more often for a sharp blade or strong taste, while spitz commonly describes a pointed form or a cutting remark.

Other meanings

  • sharpadjective
  • bitingadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Spitzetipnoun
  • spitzigbitingadjective
  • spitzensharpenverb

Word lists with this word