Airbag
/ˈɛːʁbɛk/masculine
The English word "airbag" is translated into German as Airbag. Wiktionary also lists Prallkissen.
Meaning: protective system in automobiles (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag | /ˈɛːʁbɛk/ | masculine |
| Prallkissen | neuter |
The term refers to the protective system in automobiles.
Which one should you use?
While Airbag is the common term used in everyday speech, Prallkissen is the more formal, technical term used in automotive manuals or official safety documentation.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because Airbag is a masculine noun, it changes from der Airbag to den Airbag when it is the direct object of a sentence.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɛːʁbɛk/
Did you know?
- While Airbag is used everywhere, the formal term Prallkissen literally translates to 'impact pillow'.
- The word prall in Prallkissen can also describe a fruit that is so ripe it is about to burst, mirroring the way an airbag deploys.
- In German technical manuals, you might find the term Knautschzone used alongside Airbag, which refers to the 'crumple zone' of a car.
Examples in context
- Der Airbag hat mein Leben gerettet.The airbag saved my life.This sentence is useful for showing how the Airbag can save a life.Tatoeba #3262912 by dinkel_girl, translation #3241659 by CK
- Beim Unfall hat der Airbag mein Leben gerettet.The airbag saved my life during the accident.
- Der Airbag im Auto ist wichtig.The airbag in the car is important.
- Ist der Airbag noch funktionsfähig?Is the airbag still functional?
Example conversation
Felix and Sarah are talking about a new car.
- FelixSchau mal, dieses Modell ist sehr sicher.Look, this model is very safe.
- SarahHat es auch einen Airbag auf der Beifahrerseite?Does it also have an airbag on the passenger side?
- FelixJa, jeder Sitz hat einen eigenen Airbag.Yes, every seat has its own airbag.
- SarahDas ist mir sehr wichtig, Felix.That is very important to me, Felix.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “airbag” translations and entries Airbag, Prallkissen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Airbag, Prallkissen, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
