Wirbel
/ˈvɪʁbl̩/masculine
The English word "cowlick" can be translated into German as Wirbel. Wiktionary also lists Haarwirbel.
Meaning: unruly lock of hair (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Wirbel | /ˈvɪʁbl̩/ | masculine |
| Haarwirbel | [ˈhaːɐ̯ˌvɪʁbl̩] (narrow) | masculine |
While Wirbel is the common term, you can also use the more precise compound noun Haarwirbel to specify that you are talking about hair.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Wirbel literally means a swirl, vortex or whirl.
Which one should you use?
Wirbel is the general term for a swirl or vortex, whereas Haarwirbel is a more specific compound noun used to clarify that the swirl refers specifically to hair.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word Wirbel is a masculine noun. The plural form of Wirbel is Wirbel.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈvɪʁbl̩/
Did you know?
- In German anatomy, Wirbel is also the word for 'vertebra'. The term is used because the vertebrae are viewed as small, rounded disks or 'swirls' of bone.
- The word Wirbel is used in German to describe 'whirlwind' or 'chaos', meaning if someone says 'Es herrscht ein Wirbel', they might be describing a chaotic situation rather than literal movement.
- While English uses the animal 'cow' in 'cowlick', German focuses on the shape of the hair. The word Wirbel relates to a 'vortex' or 'whirl', treating the hair as a tiny storm.
Examples in context
- Hast du diesen Wirbel auf meinem Kopf gesehen? Er ist einfach nicht zu bändigen!Have you seen this cowlick on my head? It's just impossible to tame!
- Ich habe einen störenden Wirbel.I have an annoying cowlick.
- Der Wirbel lässt sich schwer bändigen.The cowlick is hard to tame.
- Dieser Wirbel ist direkt oben auf dem Kopf.This cowlick is right on top of the head.
Example conversation
Julia is helping Julian fix his hair in the mirror.
- JuliaJulian, dein Wirbel steht total ab.Julian, your cowlick is sticking out completely.
- JulianJa, das ist echt nervig.Yes, it is really annoying.
- JuliaSoll ich ihn mit Gel glätten?Should I smooth it down with gel?
- JulianDas wäre sehr nett, danke.That would be very nice, thanks.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cowlick” translations and entries Wirbel, Haarwirbel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
