verb

bezeichnen

call · designate · refer

Ein anderes Wort für etwas nennen oder sagen, wie etwas heißt.

Definition & meaning

The verb bezeichnen has several related meanings in German:

To label or mark: To place a sign, symbol, or name on something to identify it. For example, labeling a folder or marking a path on a map.
To name or call: To describe something or someone using a specific word or term. It refers to the act of defining or categorizing something (e.g., "I would call that behavior rude").
To indicate or denote: To point out or represent something specific. It can also mean that a word or sign stands for a certain concept.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar:

Type: Weak verb (regular conjugation).
Conjugation: bezeichnete (past), hat bezeichnet (perfect).
Transitive: It requires a direct object (accusative).

Word origin: The word is composed of the prefix be- (which adds a transitive or covering meaning) and the verb zeichnen (to draw or mark). Historically, it meant "to provide something with a mark" or "to make a drawing of something."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

kennzeichnen : To mark or characterize something.
benennen : To name or term something.
etikettieren : To label or tag.
darstellen : To represent or denote.
beschreiben : To describe.

Antonyms:

verbergen : To hide or conceal (in the context of not wanting to mark or reveal).
verschleiern : To veil or obscure (the opposite of clearly naming or marking).