noun
das Plätzchen, –
cookie
The German word "Plätzchen" is a diminutive noun derived from "Platz", which means "place" or "spot". The suffix "-chen" denotes a smaller or endearing form, so "Plätzchen" literally means "small place". However, in common usage, "Plätzchen" means "cookie" or "small pastry", especially associated with German Christmas cookies.
Similar words:
- Keks (cookie, usually store-bought)
- Gebäck (pastry or baked goods)
Difference:
- Plätzchen typically refers to homemade, often festive (Christmas) cookies or biscuits.
- Keks usually implies commercially produced cookies.
- Gebäck is a broader term covering various pastries and baked goods, not specifically cookies.
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Examples
Wir haben alle Plätzchen gebacken.noun
We baked all the cookies.
Das Plätzchen liegt auf dem Teller.noun
The cookie is on the plate.
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