Beethoven
/ˈbeːtˌhoːfn̩/feminine, masculine
Beethoven is the German surname.
Meaning: German surname (name)
How does it change in a sentence?
The name can be used for both masculine and feminine contexts, though it is a surname.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbeːtˌhoːfn̩/
Did you know?
- The name Beethoven is actually a Dutch import, derived from van Beethoven, which literally means 'of the beetroot farms'.
- The name Beethoven is categorized as a surname, but in German grammar, it functions as a proper noun that does not change based on the gender of the person it describes.
- The word 'beet' in the name's origin does not refer to the musical 'beat' or rhythm. It refers strictly to the vegetable, making the name's literal translation quite botanical.
Examples in context
- Beethoven war ein großer Musiker.Beethoven was a great musician.This sentence is useful for identifying Beethoven as a musician.Tatoeba #1720121 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #34022 by CK
- Beethoven war ein großer Komponist.Beethoven was a great composer.This sentence is useful for identifying Beethoven as a composer.Tatoeba #5064293 by dispy, translation #5059621 by AlanF_US
- Wie alt war Beethoven, als er starb?How old was Beethoven when he died?This sentence is useful for asking about the age of Beethoven at his death.Tatoeba #12121204 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #12114970 by Kayray
- 24 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Laura and Lukas are at a classical music concert.
- LauraHörst du die Musik von Beethoven?Do you hear the music by Beethoven?
- LukasJa, Beethoven ist mein Favorit.Yes, Beethoven is my favorite.
- LauraEr war wirklich ein Genie.He really was a genius.
- LukasAbsolut, seine Werke sind zeitlos.Absolutely, his works are timeless.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “beethoven” translations and entries Beethoven, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Beethoven, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
