Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Fleischbällchen | neuter | |
| Fleischklößchen | neuter | |
| Frikadelle | /fʁikaˈdɛlə/ | feminine |
| Klops | /klɔps/ | masculine |
German has several words for a meatball depending on its size, texture and how it is prepared. While Fleischbällchen serves as a generic term for a meatball, other forms specify whether the meatball is a soft dumpling, a fried patty or a minced variety.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Fleischbällchen is a compound of Fleisch (meat) and Bällchen (little ball).
Which one should you use?
Fleischbällchen refers to any small meatball. In contrast, Fleischklößchen implies a softer, more dumpling-like texture, often found in soups. Frikadelle specifically refers to a larger, pan-fried meat patty that often contains breadcrumbs or soaked bread. Additionally, Hackbällchen is used to specify a ball made specifically from minced meat.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Klops is a more colloquial or informal term for a meatball, often used in a hearty or slightly unrefined way.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Bavarian region, a variation known as Leberknödel is served, which consists of meatballs made with minced liver and other ingredients.
How does it change in a sentence?
Fleischbällchen and Fleischklößchen are neuter nouns. Frikadelle is feminine and is used with the article die. Klops is masculine and is used with the article der.
Did you know?
- The word Klops is ultimately related to the German verb klopfen, which means 'to beat'.
- The term Klops is often associated with Königsberger Klopse, a famous Prussian dish where meatballs are served in a white caper sauce.
Examples in context
- Entschuldigen Sie bitte, ich hätte gerne Fleischbällchen.Excuse me, I would like to have some meatballs, please.
- Dürfte ich um eine Portion Frikadellen bitten?May I have a portion of German-style meatballs, please?
- Kannst du mir Frikadellen empfehlen?Can you recommend German-style meatballs?
- Das Fleischbällchen ist sehr heiß.The meatball is very hot.
- Ich möchte ein Fleischbällchen essen.I want to eat a meatball.
- Siehst du das kleine Fleischbällchen in der Sauce?Do you see the small meatball in the sauce?
Example conversation
Felix and Laura are eating dinner at home.
- FelixSchmeckt das Fleischbällchen gut, Laura?Does the meatball taste good, Laura?
- LauraJa, es ist sehr lecker.Yes, it is very delicious.
- FelixMöchtest du noch ein Fleischbällchen?Would you like another meatball?
- LauraNein danke, ich bin satt.No thanks, I am full.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “meatball” translations and entries Fleischbällchen, Frikadelle, Klops, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Fleischbällchen, Frikadelle, Klops, CC BY-SA 4.0.
