metselaar
/ˈmɛt.səˌlaːr/masculine
The English phrase mason can be translated into Dutch as metselaar. If unsure, use metselaar. Wiktionary also lists metser.
Meaning: one who builds with stone or brick (noun)
Ways to say it
| Dutch | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| metselaar | /ˈmɛt.səˌlaːr/ | masculine |
| metser | Flemish, masculine |
A mason is someone who builds with stone or brick. You can use the adjective bekwame with metselaar to mean a skilled mason.
What does it mean word for word?
The word metselaar is derived from metselen, which means to lay bricks or to build with masonry.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The form metser is used in the Flemish dialect of Dutch (spoken in Belgium) instead of the standard metselaar.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of metselaar is metselaars.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. The IPA pronunciation is /ˈmɛt.səˌlaːr/.
Did you know?
- The suffix -aar in metselaar is a classic way to turn a verb into a person's title, similar to how 'liar' comes from 'lie' in English.
- The Dutch language distinguishes between the act of laying bricks, metselen, and the broader construction work, which is usually called bouwen.
- In the Netherlands, if you are looking for a professional mason, you would search for a metselbedrijf, which literally means a 'mason company'.
Examples in context
- Een ervaren metselaar kan prachtige oude gebouwen restaureren.An experienced mason can restore beautiful old buildings.
- Hij is een bekwame metselaar die prachtig vakmanschap levert.He is a skilled mason who delivers magnificent craftsmanship.
- Metselaars spelen een cruciale rol bij het behoud van historische monumenten.Masons play a crucial role in preserving historical monuments.
- De metselaar werkt aan de nieuwe muur.The mason is working on the new wall.
- Mijn oom is een ervaren metselaar.My uncle is an experienced mason.
- We hebben een goede metselaar nodig.We need a good mason.
Example conversation
Lucas and Emma are looking at a house renovation.
- LucasWie gaat deze stenen muur repareren?Who is going to repair this brick wall?
- EmmaIk heb al een metselaar gebeld.I have already called a mason.
- LucasKomt hij morgenochtend langs?Is he coming by tomorrow morning?
- EmmaJa, hij komt om acht uur.Yes, he is coming at eight o'clock.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mason” translations and entries metselaar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries metselaar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
