Sekte
/ˈzɛktə/feminine
The English word 'cult' is translated into German as Sekte.
Sekte is a feminine noun used to refer to a religious sect or cult, such as in the phrase eine religiöse Sekte (a religious cult).
Meaning: sect (noun)
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between Sekte and Kult. Sekte refers specifically to a religious sect or cult. In contrast, Kult is an informal term used to describe a following or an obsession, such as a 'cult classic' (Kultfilm). While Sekte is a feminine noun, the masculine noun Kult refers to these social phenomena or followings.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Sekte is a feminine noun. The related adjective kultig or the prefix Kult- can be used to describe something that is enjoyed by a small, loyal group.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈzɛktə/
Did you know?
- The adjective kultig is frequently used to describe kitschy or quirky items that have a devoted following, like an old car or a vintage toy.
- The word Sekte shares a common ancestor with the English word 'sect'. Both trace back to the Latin sequī, meaning 'to follow'.
- In Germany, the term Sekte is often used in legal and social debates to distinguish dangerous 'cults' from recognized Religionen (religions).
Examples in context
- Schließe dich keiner Sekte an.Don't join a cult.This sentence is useful for advising someone not to join a Sekte.Tatoeba #12401218 by Adelpa, translation #12401130 by Miktsoanit
- Herr X ist Mitglied einer Sekte.Mister X is a member of a cult.This sentence is useful for stating that someone is a member of a Sekte.Tatoeba #1186506 by cumori, translation #11677513 by tieguy
- Die "Moonies" sind eine umstrittene religiöse Sekte.The "Moonies" are a controversial religious cult.
- Diese Sekte ist sehr gefährlich.This sect is very dangerous.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a documentary they just watched.
- JuliaHast du den Film über die Sekte gesehen?Did you see the film about the sect?
- MaximilianJa, der war wirklich erschreckend.Yes, it was truly frightening.
- JuliaMaximilian, die Leute dort wirken so verloren.Maximilian, the people there seem so lost.
- MaximilianDas stimmt, Julia. Das ist traurig.That's true, Julia. It is sad.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cult” translations and entries Sekte, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Sekte, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
