Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Regenschirm | [ˈʁeːɡn̩ʃɪɐ̯m] (narrow) | masculine |
| Schirm | /ʃɪʁm/ /ˈʃiːɐ̯m/ |
masculine |
| Sonnenschirm | /ˈzɔnənˌʃɪʁm/ | masculine |
An umbrella is a cloth-covered frame used for protection against rain or sun. When discussing its function, you might use the phrases gegen den Regen (against the rain) or Schutz vor Nässe (protection from wetness).
What does it mean word for word?
The word Regenschirm is a compound noun consisting of Regen (rain) and Schirm (screen, shield or umbrella).
Which one should you use?
While Schirm can mean any screen or shield, it is often used as a shorthand for Regenschirm when discussing the weather or carrying one. In contrast, Sonnenschirm specifically refers to a parasol or a large sunshade, whereas Regenschirm is for rain.
How does it change in a sentence?
All forms provided are masculine. The plural form of Regenschirm is Regenschirme. Because Regenschirm is masculine, it takes the ending -en in the accusative case, such as when you 'take' or 'have' one (e.g., einen Regenschirm).
Did you know?
- The word Schirm shares its roots with the English word 'skirmish', as both stem from a concept of protection or a covering used in combat.
- While Schirm means umbrella, it is also the root of the German word for a computer 'screen' (Bildschirm), as both are essentially protective or display shields.
- In German, the word Schirm can be used metaphorically in the phrase unter seinem Schirm stehen to mean being under someone's protection or patronage.
Examples in context
- Das ist Toms Schirm.This is Tom's umbrella.This sentence shows the possessive use of Schirm.Tatoeba #4204979 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #4012238 by CK
- Nimm den Schirm mit!Take an umbrella.This sentence demonstrates the accusative use of Schirm.Tatoeba #7434703 by brauchinet, translation #10687211 by sundown
- Hier ist euer Schirm.Here's your umbrella.This sentence shows how to use Schirm when addressing a group.Tatoeba #8100208 by Luiaard, translation #3819020 by CK
- Können Sie mir bitte einen Regenschirm geben?Could you please give me an umbrella?
- Könnten Sie mir bitte einen Schirm leihen?Could you please lend me an umbrella?
- Hast du einen Schirm?Do you have an umbrella?
- ein großer SchirmA large umbrella
- ein roter RegenschirmA red umbrella
- 480 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Julia are standing by the door during a rainstorm.
- FelixHast du einen Regenschirm dabei?Do you have an umbrella with you?
- JuliaNein, ich habe meinen Regenschirm vergessen.No, I forgot my umbrella.
- FelixKeine Sorge, ich habe einen Regenschirm.Don't worry, I have an umbrella.
- JuliaDas ist sehr lieb von dir, Felix.That is very kind of you, Felix.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “umbrella” translations and entries Regenschirm, Schirm, Sonnenschirm, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Regenschirm, Schirm, Sonnenschirm, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
