herrenlos
stray · ownerless
The German word "herrenlos" is an adjective meaning "ownerless" or "abandoned".
It is made up of "Herr" (lord, master, owner) and "los" (less, without).
Similar words:
- besitzlos (without possessions)
- herrschaftslos (without dominion/rule)
- grundstückslos (without property/land)
Difference:
- "herrenlos" refers specifically to something without an owner or master, often used for things like abandoned objects or animals.
- "besitzlos" is broader, meaning a person without possessions.
- "herrschaftslos" emphasizes absence of authority or control rather than ownership.
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Examples
Ein herrenloses Tier sucht nach Futter.adjective
A stray animal is looking for food.
Die Nachbarn riefen die Polizei, als sie einen herrenlosen Koffer im Treppenhaus bemerkten.adjective
The neighbors called the police when they noticed an ownerless suitcase in the stairwell.
Auf dem Parkplatz blieb ein herrenloser Mantel zurück.adjective
In the parking lot, an ownerless coat was left behind.
Im Park wurde gestern ein herrenloser Rucksack gefunden.adjective
In the park, an ownerless backpack was found yesterday.
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