das Gebet, -e
prayer
Definition & Meaning
The German noun "das Gebet" refers to a prayer. It represents the act of communicating with a divine power, a deity, or a spiritual entity. This communication can take the form of:
- A formal address: Reciting fixed, traditional religious texts (such as the Lord's Prayer).
- Personal conversation: An informal, private expression of gratitude, requests, or thoughts directed toward a higher power.
- The practice: The overall religious activity or devotion, as in "das Gebet verrichten" (to perform a prayer).
Grammar & Word origin
"Das Gebet" is a neuter noun. The plural form is "die Gebete".
The word originates from the Middle High German "gebet" and Old High German "gibet". It is derived from the verb "bitten" (to ask/to request). In this context, the prefix "ge-" indicates a collective or resultative sense, essentially describing "that which is requested" or the act of requesting. It is etymologically related to the English word "bid" (in the sense of a formal request or petition).
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms: While there is no direct lexical antonym for "prayer," in terms of spiritual or conversational contexts, one could contrast it with:
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Examples
Das Gebet findet am Abend statt.noun
The prayer takes place in the evening.
Zu besonderen Anlässen wird ein Gebet gemeinsam gesprochen.noun
On special occasions, a prayer is spoken together.
Während des Gebets war der Raum sehr still.noun
During the prayer the room was very quiet.
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