Steakmesser
/ˈstɛɪ̯kˌmɛsɐ/neuter
The English phrase "steak knife" is translated into German as Steakmesser.
Steakmesser refers to a knife with a sharp blade.
Meaning: knife with a sharp blade (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
This is a compound noun consisting of Steak (steak) and Messer (knife).
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is neuter, so it takes the definite article das. The plural form of Steakmesser is identical to the singular form. To express "of the steak knife", use the genitive singular form Steakmessers.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈstɛɪ̯kˌmɛsɐ/
Did you know?
- In traditional German dining etiquette, the Steakmesser is placed to the right of the plate with the cutting edge facing inward toward the plate.
- The term Steak in Steakmesser is a loanword from English, as traditional German meat cuts had their own specific names before the popularity of American-style steaks.
- Because German is a language of compounds, you can technically create an even more specific word like Steakmessersatz if you are talking about a replacement steak knife.
Examples in context
- Ich hätte gerne ein Steakmesser, bitte.I would like a steak knife, please.
- Das Steakmesser ist sehr scharf.The steak knife is very sharp.
- Ich brauche ein neues Steakmesser.I need a new steak knife.
- Wo liegt das Steakmesser?Where is the steak knife?
Example conversation
Julian and Hannah are setting the table for dinner.
- JulianHannah, hast du ein Steakmesser für mich?Hannah, do you have a steak knife for me?
- HannahJa, das Steakmesser liegt im Schrank.Yes, the steak knife is in the cupboard.
- JulianIch kann es leider nicht finden.I can't find it, unfortunately.
- HannahHier ist es, nimm es einfach.Here it is, just take it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “steak knife” translations and entries Steakmesser, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Steakmesser, CC BY-SA 4.0.
