die Hexe, -n

Definition & meaning

Hexe means witch: a woman believed in folklore or fantasy to have magical powers, often associated with spells, potions, or supernatural knowledge.

It can also be used figuratively for a woman perceived as harsh, unpleasant, or bad-tempered. This use is derogatory.

Grammar & Word origin

Hexe is a feminine noun: die Hexe. Its plural is die Hexen.

The word comes from Old High German hagazussa. Its deeper origin is uncertain; the first part may be related to a word for an enclosure or hedge. The modern German word is not made up of clearly separable parts.

Synonyms & antonyms

• Zauberin ↗ — “sorceress” or “female magician.” It often sounds more neutral and emphasizes someone who practices magic, while Hexe more strongly evokes folklore or a negative stereotype.
• Magierin ↗ — “female magician.” This is usually a neutral term for someone skilled in magic, especially in fantasy.
• Fee ↗ — “fairy.” Not a true antonym, but sometimes a contrasting magical figure in fairy tales. There is no direct antonym for Hexe.

Common phrases & collocations

• eine Hexe sein ? — to be a witch; figuratively, to be a harsh or unpleasant woman.
• Hexen verfolgen ? — to persecute witches.
• Hexenverfolgung ? — witch persecution or witch-hunt.
• auf einem Besen fliegen ? — to fly on a broomstick, a familiar image associated with witches.