Messer
/ˈmɛsɐ/neuter
The English word 'knife' is translated into German as Messer. Wiktionary also lists Mässer.
Meaning: utensil or tool designed for cutting (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Messer | /ˈmɛsɐ/ | neuter |
| Mässer | Alemannic German, neuter |
The word refers to a utensil or tool designed for cutting. You may encounter specific types such as a Brotmesser (bread knife) or a Fleischmesser (meat knife). Related to this noun is the verb messern, which means to use a knife to injure or kill.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Alemannic dialects, such as those spoken in parts of Switzerland or Southwestern Germany, the form Mässer is used.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Messer is a neuter noun. Because of this, it takes the definite article das (das Messer) and the indefinite article ein (ein Messer).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmɛsɐ/
Did you know?
- The German word Messer is a linguistic 'cousin' to the English word 'measure', as both descend from ancient roots related to the act of cutting or marking out portions.
- The phrase auf Messers Schneide describes a situation that is precarious or balanced on a knife-edge.
- A pocket knife is rarely called a simple Messer and is instead almost always referred to as a Taschenmesser.
Examples in context
- Wo ist das Messer?Where's the knife?This sentence is useful for asking for the location of the Messer.Tatoeba #8104114 by Luiaard, translation #4495078 by CK
- Gib mir das Messer.Give me the knife.This sentence is useful for requesting the Messer.Tatoeba #5244348 by christian42, translation #3151476 by CK
- Hast du ein Messer?Do you have a knife?This sentence is useful for asking if someone possesses a Messer.Tatoeba #7769567 by Yorwba, translation #3823220 by CK
- 296 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are preparing dinner in the kitchen.
- HannahJulian, kannst du mir das Messer geben?Julian, can you give me the knife?
- JulianHier ist das Messer für die Tomaten.Here is the knife for the tomatoes.
- HannahDanke, es ist wirklich ein gutes Messer.Thanks, it is really a good knife.
- JulianJa, das Messer schneidet alles sehr leicht.Yes, the knife cuts through everything very easily.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “knife” translations and entries Messer, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Messer, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
