Ferse
/ˈfɛʁzə/
The English phrase 'heel' is translated into German as Ferse.
Ferse refers to the rounded back part of the human foot.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions, the word Pumps is used to refer to women's shoes with a moderate heel.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Ferse is Fersen.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈfɛʁzə/
Did you know?
- The word Absatz, used for a shoe heel, also means 'paragraph' in a text or 'sales volume' in business.
- The phrase jemandem auf die Fersen sitzen literally translates to 'sitting on someone's heels', which means to chase someone relentlessly.
- While Ferse describes the body part, the physical heel of a shoe is often called a Absatz.
Examples in context
- Der Absatz des Schuhs sollte stabil sein.The heel of the shoe should be stable.
- Die Schuhe sollten einen hohen Schuhabsatz haben.The shoes should have a high heel.
- Meine neuen High Heels sehen fantastisch aus.My new high heels look fantastic.
- Ich trage heute meine roten Pumps.I'm wearing my red pumps today.
- Meine Ferse tut weh.My heel hurts.
- Ich habe eine Blase an der Ferse.I have a blister on my heel.
- Der Schuh drückt an der Ferse.The shoe is pressing on the heel.
Example conversation
Julian and Hannah are walking in the park.
- JulianWarum gehst du so langsam, Hannah?Why are you walking so slowly, Hannah?
- HannahMeine Ferse tut sehr weh.My heel hurts a lot.
- JulianSoll ich dich nach Hause bringen?Should I take you home?
- HannahJa, das wäre sehr lieb von dir.Yes, that would be very kind of you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Ferse, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
