Rucksack
/ˈʁʊkzak/
The English word knapsack is translated into German as Rucksack. Wiktionary also lists Tornister.
Meaning: case of canvas or leather, for carrying items on the back (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Rucksack | /ˈʁʊkzak/ | |
| Tornister | /tɔrˈnɪstər/ | masculine |
A knapsack refers to a case made of canvas or leather used for carrying items on one's back. Common expressions include Den Rucksack packen, which means to pack the knapsack and Mit dem Rucksack reisen, which means to travel with a knapsack.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Rucksack is a compound noun formed from Rücken (back) and Sack (sack or bag).
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Rucksack is Rucksäcke. When using the word in the dative plural case, it changes to Rucksäcken.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʁʊkzak/
Did you know?
- While Rucksack is the standard word for a backpack, the word Tornister is a historical leftover that traces its roots back to the Byzantine Greek word tágistron, which actually meant a 'nosebag' for animals.
- In historical German contexts, a Tornister specifically referred to the rigid, box-like packs used by soldiers, whereas Rucksack describes a softer bag.
Examples in context
- Mein Rucksack ist sehr schwer.My knapsack is very heavy.This sentence is useful for describing the weight of your Rucksack.Tatoeba #10629419 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #10629084 by CK
- Tom klappte die Zeitschrift zu und verstaute sie in seinen Rucksack.Tom closed the magazine and put it into his knapsack.This sentence shows how to use the word Rucksack when putting an object inside it.Tatoeba #2767803 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2639863 by CK
- Ich trage einen Rucksack auf dem Rücken.I am wearing a knapsack on my back.
- Pack bitte deinen Rucksack.Please pack your knapsack.
Example conversation
Laura and Felix are preparing for a hike.
- LauraWo ist mein blauer Rucksack?Where is my blue knapsack?
- FelixEr steht dort an der Tür.It is standing there by the door.
- LauraDanke, Felix!Thanks, Felix!
- FelixGerne, Laura. Lass uns losgehen.You're welcome, Laura. Let's go.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “knapsack” translations and entries Rucksack, Tornister, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Rucksack, Tornister, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
