Ruder
/ˈruːdər/neuter
The English word rudder is translated into German as Ruder. If unsure, use Ruder. Wiktionary also lists Steuer and Steuerruder.
Meaning: underwater vane used to steer a vessel (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ruder | /ˈruːdər/ | neuter |
| Steuer | /ʃtɔʏ̯ər/ | neuter |
| Steuerruder | neuter |
The term refers to an underwater vane used to steer a vessel.
Which one should you use?
While Ruder refers to the physical blade or oar-like object, Steuer is often used in a more technical or abstract sense to refer to the steering mechanism or the act of steering itself. Steuerruder is also a form available for this concept.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Ruder is the root of the verb rudern, which means 'to row'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈruːdər/
Did you know?
- If you are paying your 'tax' in Germany, you are actually using a word that once meant a 'support' or a 'rudder'. The German word for 'tax', Steuer, shares its history with the mechanical act of steering a ship.
- The verb rudern usually means 'to row', but in colloquial German, it can also describe someone talking frantically or acting haphazardly without a clear goal.
- In German, the word Ruder describes both the steering rudder and the oars used to propel a boat. This means the same word is used for steering and for powering the vessel.
Examples in context
- Ein Mensch ohne Ziel ist wie ein Schiff ohne Ruder.A man without a goal is like a ship without a rudder.Tatoeba #12406548 by Waldelfe, translation #3133111 by carlosalberto
- Ein kleines Boot wird mit einer am Ruderkopf befestigten Pinne gesteuert.A small boat is steered by means of a tiller fitted to the head of the rudder.Tatoeba #12432464 by Yorwba, translation #672298 by qdii
- Das Ruder des SchiffsThe rudder of the ship
- Das Steuer des BootesThe rudder of the boat
- Das Steuerruder des SegelschiffsThe rudder of the sailing ship
- Das Ruder des Schiffes muss regelmäßig gewartet werden.The rudder of the ship needs regular maintenance.
- Lass uns das Ruder übernehmen und eine neue Richtung einschlagen!Let's take the helm and change direction!
- Das kleine Segelboot hatte ein Steuerruder am Heck.The small sailboat had a rudder at the stern.
- Das Ruder ist beschädigt.The rudder is damaged.
Example conversation
A man and a woman are inspecting a small sailboat in a harbor.
- JuliaFelix, schau mal, das Ruder ist kaputt.Felix, look, the rudder is broken.
- FelixOh nein, Julia, das ist ein großes Problem.Oh no, Julia, that is a big problem.
- JuliaKönnen wir das Ruder selbst reparieren?Can we repair the rudder ourselves?
- FelixIch glaube, wir brauchen einen Fachmann.I think we need a professional.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “rudder” translations and entries Ruder, Steuer, Steuerruder, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Ruder, Steuer, Steuerruder, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
