Ringelflechte
feminine
The English term ringworm is translated into German as Ringelflechte. Wiktionary also lists Flechtengrind and Glatzflechte.
Meaning: contagious fungal affliction of the skin (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | Note |
|---|---|
| Ringelflechte | feminine |
| Flechtengrind | masculine |
| Glatzflechte | feminine |
Ringworm refers to a contagious fungal affliction of the skin. In a medical or formal context, you may encounter the term Tinea corporis for ringworm specifically or the broader term Dermatophytose to describe a fungal infection.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Ringelflechte is a compound formed from Ring (ring) and Flechte (lichen/crust), implying a ring-shaped skin condition.
Which one should you use?
Ringelflechte is the general term for ringworm. Glatzflechte is a more specific term used when the ringworm causes patches of hair loss. Flechtengrind is a masculine synonym often used when the infection is characterized by being crusty or scabby.
How does it change in a sentence?
Ringelflechte and Glatzflechte are feminine nouns, whereas Flechtengrind is a masculine noun.
Did you know?
- While the English word 'ringworm' suggests a parasite, the German Ringelflechte identifies it as a Flechte, which means 'lichen'. This reflects an old botanical belief that the skin rash looked like the symbiotic organisms found on tree bark.
- The word Grind in Flechtengrind is a harsh term that can also refer to a scab or a crusty sore. In a non-medical context, calling someone a Grind can be a strong insult regarding their hygiene or appearance.
- Despite the English name 'ringworm', German speakers do not associate the condition with a 'Wurm' (worm) in their common terminology, avoiding the misconception that an actual animal is living in the skin.
Examples in context
- Die Ringelflechte ist sehr ansteckend.Ringworm is very contagious.
Example conversation
Laura shows Julian a red circle on her skin.
- LauraJulian, schau mal, ist das eine Ringelflechte?Julian, look, is this ringworm?
- JulianDas sieht tatsächlich so aus.It actually looks like it.
- LauraSoll ich direkt zum Arzt gehen?Should I go to the doctor right away?
- JulianJa, du solltest das schnell behandeln lassen.Yes, you should have that treated quickly.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ringworm” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
