Schiene
/ˈʃiːnə/
The English word 'splint' translates to German as Schiene. Wiktionary also lists Gipsschiene.
Meaning: immobilizing device (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| Schiene | /ˈʃiːnə/ |
| Gipsschiene |
A splint refers to an immobilizing device.
Which one should you use?
Schiene is the general term for a splint. Use Gipsschiene specifically when referring to a plaster splint. In formal medical contexts, a Verbandsschiene can be used to emphasize the device's connection to a bandage, while Fixateur is the technical term for an external fixation device or an orthopedic fixator used to stabilize fractures.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃiːnə/
Did you know?
- In German, the word Schiene is a homonym that can also mean a 'rail' or 'track' for a train.
- The German word Schiene is a cognate of the English word 'shin'. Both terms originally referred to the front part of the leg.
- German speakers use Schiene to describe the 'runners' on a sled or the 'skis' of certain vehicles.
Examples in context
- Der Arzt legte eine Schiene an meinem gebrochenen Arm an.The doctor applied a splint to my broken arm.
- Die Schiene schützt den verletzten Arm.The splint protects the injured arm.
- Er muss die Schiene ständig tragen.He has to wear the splint constantly.
- Eine Schiene hilft bei der Heilung.A splint helps with the healing.
Example conversation
Maximilian and Laura are at the doctor's office.
- MaximilianWie fühlt sich dein Finger an, Laura?How does your finger feel, Laura?
- LauraEs tut noch weh, trotz der Schiene.It still hurts, despite the splint.
- MaximilianVielleicht sitzt die Schiene zu eng.Maybe the splint is too tight.
- LauraIch werde den Arzt gleich fragen.I will ask the doctor right away.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “splint” translations and entries Schiene, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Schiene, CC BY-SA 4.0.
