noun
die Doe, –
belonging
The German word "Habseligkeit" is a noun that means "belongings", "possessions", or "effects" — usually referring to a person's modest or humble material possessions.
- It is composed of "Hab" (from "haben" = to have) meaning "possession" or "property" and "Seligkeit" (from "selig" = blessed, blissful), originally implying something precious or valuable in an emotional/spiritual sense.
Similar words:
- Besitz (possession)
- Hab und Gut (property, belongings)
- Eigentum (ownership, property)
Differences:
- "Habseligkeit" often conveys a sentimental tone, romanticizing or emphasizing the humble or cherished nature of belongings.
- "Besitz" and "Eigentum" are more neutral/legal terms focusing strictly on ownership.
- "Hab und Gut" is a phrase encompassing all possessions but without the emotional nuance.
Make “Habseligkeit” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Sie packt ihre einzige Habseligkeit ein.noun
She packs her only belonging.
Er verlor all seine Habseligkeiten im Sturm.noun
He lost all his belongings in the storm.
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad