verb

abriegeln

seal off

Definition & meaning

The verb abriegeln primarily means to seal off or cordon off an area to prevent people or vehicles from entering or leaving. It is most commonly used in a police, military, or security context.

There are three main nuances to the word:

To seal or cordon off: This refers to closing off a street, a building, or a whole district using barriers or guards. For example, the police might seal off a crime scene.
To bolt or lock: Historically and literally, it means to close a door or gate using a bolt (Riegel).
To isolate (figurative): It can describe a situation where a person or a country shuts themselves off from external influences or communication.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a separable verb: riegelt ab (present), riegelte ab (simple past), and abgeriegelt (past participle).

It is composed of two parts:

ab-: A prefix that, in this context, indicates separation or the completion of an action.
riegeln: Derived from the German noun der Riegel, which means a bolt, latch, or bar used to secure a door.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

absperren: To block off or close a passage, often used interchangeably with abriegeln.
blockieren: To block or obstruct a path or function.
abschotten: To seal off or isolate, often used when talking about ships (bulkheads) or metaphorical isolation.
verriegeln: To lock something specifically with a bolt or latch.
einkesseln: To encircle or trap (usually in a military or police context).