das Glatteis
black ice
The German word "Glatteis" is a compound noun made up of two parts:
- "Glatte": from "glatt," meaning "smooth" or "slippery."
- "Eis": meaning "ice."
Meaning:
"Glatteis" refers to "black ice" or "sheet ice" — a thin, transparent, and especially slippery layer of ice on roads or surfaces, which is dangerous because it’s hard to see.
Similar words:
- "Eis" (ice) – general ice, not necessarily slippery.
- "Schlitt Eis" – ice for skating.
- "Spiegeleis" – thin ice on roads (similar, but often with a watery appearance).
Difference:
"Glatteis" specifically emphasizes the smooth and hidden – thus hazardous – iced surface, unlike general "Eis," which can be thicker, rough, or visible ice.
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Examples
Im Winter gibt es viel Glatteis auf der Straße.noun
In winter there is a lot of black ice on the street.
Wegen des Glatteises blieb der Bus stehen.noun
Because of the black ice, the bus stopped.
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