Hausmeister
/ˈhaʊsˌmaɪ̯stɐ/
The German word for superintendent is Hausmeister.
While the English term 'superintendent' can sometimes refer to a high-level administrator, Hausmeister typically refers to a building caretaker or janitor responsible for maintenance and repairs.
Meaning: a person who is authorized to supervise, direct or administer something (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Haus (house) and Meister (master or foreman), literally meaning 'house master'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The term Hausmeister is used in Germany.
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form is Hausmeister. To refer to a female superintendent or caretaker, use the feminine form Hausmeisterin. In the nominative plural, the word remains Hausmeister.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈhaʊsˌmaɪ̯stɐ/
Did you know?
- In German culture, the Hausmeister is often viewed as a powerful figure of authority in apartment complexes, sometimes jokingly referred to as the 'king' of the building.
- The term Meister in Hausmeister is legally protected in many German trades, meaning one must pass a rigorous exam to be a certified Meister in a craft.
- In some contexts, calling someone a Hausmeister can be a subtle way of suggesting they are being too bossy or overly concerned with small, trivial details.
Examples in context
- Wir bitten den Hausmeister, sich um das Problem mit der Heizung zu kümmern.We kindly ask the superintendent to take care of the heating issue.
- Der Verwalter kümmert sich um die Finanzen und die Instandhaltung der Wohnanlage.The superintendent takes care of the finances and maintenance of the housing complex.
- Frag doch den Hauswart, ob er dir bei deinem Umzug helfen kann.Ask the superintendent if he can help you with your move.
- Der Hausmeister repariert die Tür.The superintendent is repairing the door.
- Ich muss den Hausmeister fragen.I have to ask the superintendent.
- Unser Hausmeister ist sehr nett.Our superintendent is very kind.
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are in the hallway of their apartment building.
- JulianSarah, die Heizung funktioniert nicht mehr.Sarah, the heating isn't working anymore.
- SarahWir sollten sofort den Hausmeister rufen.We should call the superintendent immediately.
- JulianWeißt du, wo er gerade ist?Do you know where he is right now?
- SarahEr ist sicher im Keller.He is probably in the basement.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Hausmeister, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
