Weste
/ˈvɛstə/feminine
The German word for vest is Weste. Wiktionary also lists Gilet.
Meaning: garment worn over a shirt (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Weste | /ˈvɛstə/ | feminine |
| Gilet | archaic, neuter, regional |
A vest refers to a garment worn over a shirt.
Which one should you use?
Weste is the standard, modern German word for a vest. Gilet is an archaic and regional alternative.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Gilet is a regional form.
How does it change in a sentence?
Weste is a feminine noun and takes the definite article die.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈvɛstə/
Did you know?
- The German expression eine weiße Weste haben means to have a clean record or a spotless reputation. It is the equivalent of the English phrase 'to have a clean slate'.
- The spelling of Weste with a 'W' was likely a deliberate choice to avoid confusion with the German word Veste, which means 'fortress'.
- In traditional Bavarian attire, the Weste is an essential part of the Tracht costume and often features intricate embroidery that signals regional identity.
Examples in context
- Der da hat keine Weste an.That one there hasn't got a vest on.This sentence is useful for describing someone who is not wearing a Weste.Tatoeba #10274185 by wolfgangth, translation #8888191 by sundown
- Tom trug eine kugelsichere Weste.Tom was wearing a bulletproof vest.This sentence is useful for describing a bulletproof Weste.Tatoeba #7592048 by wolfgangth, translation #3927917 by Amastan
- Er hat noch immer eine weiße Weste.He still has a white vest.This sentence is useful for describing a white Weste.Tatoeba #1699373 by Esperantostern, translation #2038634 by chubbard
- Die Herren tragen Anzüge mit passenden Westen.The gentlemen are wearing suits with matching vests.
- Er trägt ein schickes Gilet zu seiner Jeans.He is wearing a stylish vest with his jeans.
- 7 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Maximilian and Julia are getting dressed for a formal party.
- MaximilianPasst die Weste zu meinem Hemd?Does the vest match my shirt?
- JuliaJa, die Weste sieht sehr schick aus.Yes, the vest looks very chic.
- MaximilianSoll ich die Weste wirklich tragen?Should I really wear the vest?
- JuliaJa, Maximilian, die Weste macht den Look perfekt.Yes, Maximilian, the vest makes the look perfect.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “vest” translations and entries Weste, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Weste, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
