das Erbrechen
vomit
Definition & meaning
"Erbrechen" means vomiting or to vomit in English. It refers to the act of forcefully expelling the contents of the stomach through the mouth.
The term can be used both as a noun (das Erbrechen) and as a verb (sich erbrechen).
In a medical or everyday context, it describes a physical reaction caused by illness, poisoning, or other disturbances in the stomach.
Figuratively, though less common, it can also describe a strong feeling of disgust — for example, someone might say „Ich muss mich erbrechen“ when something is extremely repulsive.
Grammar & Word origin
- Part of speech: noun (das Erbrechen) or verb (erbrechen – reflexive: sich erbrechen).
- Plural: as a mass noun, rarely pluralized (die Erbrechen is uncommon).
- Verb forms: erbricht, erbrach, hat erbrochen.
- Origin: Derived from the prefix „er-“, which can express a result or completion, and the verb „brechen“ meaning to break. Literally, „erbrechen“ means to break out, referring to the expulsion of contents from the stomach.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: sich übergeben , kotzen , speien .
Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms, but behalten (to keep down food) can serve as the opposite in a medical or practical sense.
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Examples
Der Patient musste sich plötzlich erbrechen.noun
The patient suddenly had to vomit.
Heftiges Erbrechen kann zu Wasserverlust führen.noun
Severe vomiting can lead to loss of water.
Das Erbrechen trat während der Nacht immer wieder auf.noun
The vomiting occurred again and again during the night.
Das Erbrechen wurde durch verdorbene Lebensmittel ausgelöst.noun
The vomiting was triggered by spoiled food.
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