Keller
/ˈkɛlɐ/masculine
The English word 'basement' can be translated into German as Keller. Wiktionary also lists Untergeschoss and Kellergeschoss.
Meaning: floor below ground level (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Keller | /ˈkɛlɐ/ | masculine |
| Untergeschoss | /ˈʊntɐɡəˌʃɔs/ /ˈʊntɐɡəˌʃoːs/ (sometimes) |
neuter |
| Kellergeschoss | /ˈkɛlɐɡəˌʃɔs/ | neuter |
The term is used to describe a floor below ground level.
Which one should you use?
Untergeschoss (often abbreviated as UG) is used when referring to the basement as a structural level or floor in a building, such as in architectural plans or elevator buttons.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are expressing movement from one place into the basement, use 'in den Keller' to reflect the accusative case required by direction.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkɛlɐ/
Did you know?
- If a German speaker mentions Kellerkinder, they are referring to 'cellar children', a term used for children born or raised in bunkers during World War II.
- The word Keller is used in the common idiom im Keller sein, which can describe a feeling of deep depression or a significant drop in prices.
- Many traditional German homes have a Keller specifically to store potatoes and preserves, utilizing the natural earth temperature to keep food cool without electricity.
Examples in context
- Es ist im Keller.It's in the basement.Tatoeba #7478480 by Yorwba, translation #2647132 by CK
- Hast du einen Keller?Do you have a basement?Tatoeba #12405360 by Waldelfe, translation #11671047 by Amastan
- Im Keller ist es kalt.It's cold in the basement.Tatoeba #9466016 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #9466017 by CM
- Der Keller ist perfekt für die Lagerung von Lebensmitteln.The basement is perfect for storing food.
- 78 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Hannah are looking for a box of old photos.
- FelixSind die Fotos im Keller?Are the photos in the basement?
- HannahJa, sie sind in einer blauen Kiste.Yes, they are in a blue box.
- FelixIch gehe schnell in den Keller.I'll go down to the basement quickly.
- HannahBring mir bitte auch meine Jacke mit.Please bring my jacket back with you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “basement” translations and entries Keller, Untergeschoss, Kellergeschoss, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
