verb

anlaufen

start running · start up

Es bedeutet, mit einer Bewegung oder einem Vorgang zu beginnen, oft nachdem etwas vorher stillstand.

Definition & meaning

The German verb anlaufen is a versatile word with several distinct meanings depending on the context:

To start or get underway: This is commonly used for machines, engines, or technical processes. It describes the phase where a motor begins to rotate or a production line starts operating. It can also refer to the start of a project or a new program.
To tarnish or fog up: When surfaces like metal (silver) or glass (windows, glasses) react with air or moisture, they can "anlaufen." For example, a window fogs up in a cold room, or silver turns black over time.
To call at a port: In maritime contexts, it refers to a ship entering or stopping at a specific harbor or port.
To gain momentum: In sports, it describes the act of taking a running start before a jump or a throw.
To change color: It is used to describe a person's face turning a different color due to physical or emotional stress, such as "rot anlaufen" (to turn red/blush) or "blau anlaufen" (to turn blue, often due to lack of oxygen).

Grammar & Word origin

Anlaufen is a separable strong verb (trennbares starkes Verb). Its principal parts are:

Present: läuft an
Past: lief an
Past Participle: ist angelaufen

The word is composed of the prefix an- and the base verb laufen . The prefix "an-" in this context often signifies the beginning of an action or an approach toward a state. The base verb "laufen" means "to run" or "to walk," but in many German compounds, it refers more generally to movement or operation.