VocabuoDictionaryGet the app
noun

das Gegengift, -e

antidote

Definition & meaning

Das Gegengift refers to an antidote. It is a substance that can counteract or neutralize the effects of a poison (toxin) in the body.

In a figurative sense, the word can also be used to describe a remedy or a positive influence that offsets something negative or harmful, such as a "Gegengift" to boredom or a hostile atmosphere.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a neuter compound noun: das Gegengift. The plural form is die Gegengifte.

It consists of two parts:

  1. gegen : a preposition meaning "against" or "counter".
  2. Gift : a noun meaning "poison".

Note that in German, "Gift" always means poison and should not be confused with the English word "gift" (which is "Geschenk" in German).

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • das Antidot (technical/medical term)
  • das Gegenmittel (a more general term for any kind of counter-remedy)
  • die Arznei (medicine, though less specific)

Antonyms:

  • das Gift (poison)
  • das Toxin (toxin)
  • der Schadstoff (pollutant or harmful substance)

Make “Gegengift” part of your vocabulary.

Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Get Vocabuo on the App StoreGet Vocabuo for Android

Examples

Der Arzt sucht schnell nach einem Gegengift.noun

The doctor is quickly looking for an antidote.

Keep exploring German

Learn words from the content you love.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).

Download on theApp StoreGET IT ONGoogle Play