German word

weich

Pronunciation

IPA/vaɪ̯ç/

Meaning

  • adjectivesoft

Example

Das Kissen ist heute weicher als gestern.

The pillow is softer today than it was yesterday.

Illustration for weich (soft)

More examples

Beim Anblick des Paares bekam er weiche Knie.

At the sight of the couple, he got weak in the knees.

Core concept

A surface that bends or sinks when pressed, unlike a rigid board or hard shell.

Common phrases

  • weiche Knie

    weak knees

  • weiche Farben

    soft colors

Similar words

sanft: Mild on contact, with no harsh or jarring sensation.
zart: Delicate and thin, offering a gentle feel with light contact.
kuschelig: Comfortably warm and soft, inviting a cozy feeling against the body.
flauschig: Light and fluffy, with a soft pile that holds air.

Definition in German

auf Druck leicht nachgebend; nicht fest

Word origin

The German adjective weich continues a Middle High German and Old High German form and belongs to the same Germanic family as English weak.

Usage tips

  • For people or behavior, weich can mean mild or gentle, while sanft often suggests a more soothing manner or touch.

Other meanings

  • mildadjective
  • gentleadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Weichheitsoftnessnoun
  • erweichensoftenverb

Word lists with this word