Bettdecke
/ˈbɛtˌdɛkə/feminine
The English phrase 'duvet' can be translated into German as Bettdecke. Wiktionary also lists Steppdecke and Federbett.
Meaning: quilt (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bettdecke | /ˈbɛtˌdɛkə/ | feminine |
| Steppdecke | /ˈʃtɛpˌdɛkə/ | feminine |
| Federbett | /ˈfeːdɐˌbɛt/ | neuter |
| Plumeau | neuter | |
| Plümo | neuter | |
| Daunendecke | also, feminine, with down |
What does it mean word for word?
The word Bettdecke is a compound made of Bett (bed) and Decke (cover/blanket).
Which one should you use?
While Bettdecke is a general term for a duvet, Steppdecke specifically refers to a quilted or stitched blanket. Similarly, Federbett specifically implies a duvet filled with feathers or down, whereas Bettdecke is the generic term for any duvet. Other variations include Daunendecke, which also refers to a duvet with down and the terms Plumeau or Plümo.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Bettdecke is feminine and takes the article die in the nominative case. The noun Federbett is neuter and takes the article das in the nominative case.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbɛtˌdɛkə/
Did you know?
- In many German households, it is common to use two separate Bettdecken for a couple instead of one large shared quilt. This custom helps prevent 'blanket stealing' and allows each person to regulate their own temperature.
- The term Plumeau comes from the French word for 'feather duster'. In some German dialects, it shifted from referring to the tool that cleans the dust to the feathered duvet itself.
- The word Decke is a linguistic 'chameleon' because it can mean a duvet, a tablecloth, a ceiling, or even a cover for a musical instrument depending on the context.
Examples in context
- Im Winter decke ich mich mit einem Federbett zu.In winter I tuck myself up in a duvet.This sentence is useful for describing how one tucks themselves in with a Federbett during winter.Tatoeba #9049361 by Yorwba, translation #9116271 by sundown
- Ich zog die Bettdecke über meinen Kopf und drehte mich zur Wand.I pulled the duvet over my head and turned towards the wall.This sentence is useful for describing pulling a Bettdecke over one's head.Tatoeba #1629834 by al_ex_an_der, translation #10840846 by sundown
- Entschuldigen Sie, könnten Sie mir bitte eine zusätzliche Bettdecke bringen?Excuse me, could you please bring me an extra duvet?
- Die Bettdecke ist sehr weich.The duvet is very soft.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Maximilian are preparing their guest room.
- HannahHast du eine neue Bettdecke gefunden?Did you find a new duvet?
- MaximilianJa, sie liegt im Schrank.Yes, it is in the closet.
- HannahIst sie warm genug für ihn?Is it warm enough for him?
- MaximilianJa, sie ist sehr flauschig.Yes, it is very fluffy.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “duvet” translations and entries Bettdecke, Steppdecke, Federbett, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
