Schnabeltier
/ʃnɑbɛlˈtiːɐ̯/neuter
The English word platypus is translated into German as Schnabeltier.
Schnabeltier is the most commonly used term for the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in German.
Meaning: Ornithorhynchus anatinus (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Schnabel (beak/bill) and Tier (animal).
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Schnabeltier is Schnabeltiere.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʃnɑbɛlˈtiːɐ̯/
Did you know?
- German learners might be surprised that Schnabeltier lacks any reference to the 'platypus' root, which comes from the Greek 'platypus' meaning 'flat-footed'.
- The word Tier in Schnabeltier is an ancient Germanic root that is closely related to the English word 'deer'.
- The word Schnabel is also used in German idioms to describe someone who talks too much or a 'beak' that is always open.
Examples in context
- Wir haben ein Schnabeltier.We have a platypus.Tatoeba #12300416 by Augustus, translation #8609461 by shekitten
- Das Schnabeltier ist ein einzigartiges Tier aus Australien.The platypus is a unique animal from Australia.
- Das Kloakentier ist ein faszinierendes Lebewesen aus Australien.The cloacal animal is a fascinating creature from Australia.
- Das Schnabeltier ist ein sehr seltsames Tier.The platypus is a very strange animal.
- Siehst du das Schnabeltier im Zoo?Do you see the platypus in the zoo?
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are visiting a zoo together.
- JulianSchau mal, da ist ein Schnabeltier!Look, there is a platypus!
- SarahOh, wie süß das Schnabeltier ist.Oh, how cute the platypus is.
- JulianEs schwimmt gerade im Wasser.It is swimming in the water right now.
- SarahJulian, das ist wirklich faszinierend.Julian, that is truly fascinating.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “platypus” translations and entries Schnabeltier, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Schnabeltier, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
