Engel
/ˈɛŋl̩/masculine
The German word for angel is Engel.
Engel is a masculine noun used to refer to a messenger from a deity.
Meaning: messenger from a deity (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Bavarian dialect, the word for angel is Engerl, while in the Swabian dialect, the word is Engili.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Engel is Engel. The genitive singular form is Engels.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɛŋl̩/
Did you know?
- German folklore includes the Engelbeißer, a mythical creature that is not a divine messenger but a frightening spirit.
- In historical German contexts, a person might be nicknamed Engel not just for their kindness, but simply because they lived in a house marked by an angel sign.
- In the German tradition of 'Christmas Pyramids', Engel figures are often placed on the rotating tiers to symbolize the heavens.
Examples in context
- Sie ist ein Engel.She's an angel.This sentence shows how to use Engel to describe a woman.Tatoeba #1851626 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1851464 by Spamster
- Bist du ein Engel?Are you an angel?This sentence shows how to use Engel in a question.Tatoeba #6150631 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #5671839 by Hybrid
- Tom ist ein Engel.Tom is an angel.This sentence shows how to use Engel to describe a man.Tatoeba #6642753 by Felixjp, translation #2272940 by CK
- Ich glaube fest an meinen Schutzengel.I believe firmly in my guardian angel.
- 69 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a painting in a church.
- LukasSiehst du den Engel dort oben?Do you see the angel up there?
- JuliaJa, der Engel sieht sehr friedlich aus.Yes, the angel looks very peaceful.
- LukasEs ist ein wunderschöner Engel.It is a beautiful angel.
- JuliaStimmt, Lukas, er ist wirklich beeindruckend.True, Lukas, he is really impressive.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “angel” translations and entries Engel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
