Norden
/ˈnɔrdən/masculine
The German word for north is Norden. Wiktionary also lists Nord.
Meaning: compass point (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Norden | /ˈnɔrdən/ | masculine |
| Nord | /nɔʁt/ | masculine |
The term refers to the compass point. The prefix nord- is commonly used to form compound words, such as Nordwind (north wind).
Which one should you use?
Norden is used as a noun when referring to the direction or the region. In contrast, Nord- acts as a prefix to create compound nouns.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the context of automobile racing, the term Nordschleife refers specifically to the northern loop of the Nürburgring race track.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
When you want to express movement towards the north, use the phrase nach Norden instead of just using the word Nord. If you are describing a location situated within the north, use the prepositional phrase im Norden.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈnɔrdən/
Did you know?
- The adjective form 'nordisch' is often used in German to describe things specifically related to the North, such as 'nordische Mythologie' (Norse mythology).
- German uses the word Nordlicht for the Aurora Borealis, literally meaning 'north light'.
- German distinguishes between the compass direction Norden and the adjective nördlich, which is used to describe things situated to the north of another object.
Examples in context
- Es bläst ein Nordwind.A north wind is blowing.This sentence demonstrates the use of the prefix Nord in a compound noun.Tatoeba #3101874 by pne, translation #2476360 by FeuDRenais2
- Wir fuhren nach Norden.We went due north.This sentence illustrates the correct usage of Norden when expressing movement towards a direction.Tatoeba #12565235 by mayabe, translation #22884 by CM
- Tom kommt aus dem Norden.Tom comes from the north.This sentence shows how to use Norden when describing a person coming from a specific region.Tatoeba #5436934 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #5434208 by CK
- Um nach Berlin zu gelangen, nehmen Sie die Autobahn Richtung Norden.To reach Berlin, take the highway towards the north.
- Wir müssen gen Norden fahren, um den Strand zu erreichen.We need to drive towards the north to reach the beach.
- Der Winter ist hart im hohen Norden Deutschlands.Winter is harsh in the far north of Germany.
- 228 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Maximilian and Sarah are discussing their travel plans.
- MaximilianWohin fahren wir im Urlaub?Where are we traveling for vacation?
- SarahIch möchte in den Norden reisen.I want to travel to the north.
- MaximilianIm Norden ist es oft windig.In the north, it is often windy.
- SarahDas macht mir nichts aus.I don't mind that.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “north” translations and entries Norden, Nord, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
