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nounnounnoun

der Rodel, –

sled

Definition & meaning

Rodel is a regional German word, especially common in Austria and parts of southern Germany, for a sled or toboggan—a small vehicle used to slide downhill over snow. It can also mean the activity of sledding.

In older or historical usage, Rodel can mean a register or written list, such as a record of property or obligations. This sense is uncommon today.

Grammar & Word origin

Rodel is a masculine noun: der Rodel. Its usual plural is die Rodel; die Rodeln is also used regionally. The sled meaning is chiefly regional rather than standard throughout the German-speaking world.

The word has historical regional forms. The origins of the sled sense are uncertain, so it is best not to assume that it shares an origin with the older “register” meaning.

Synonyms & antonyms

  • Schlitten — the common standard-German word for a sled. Unlike Rodel, it is not especially associated with Austria or southern Germany.
  • Toboggan — a less common word for a sled, often suggesting a long, narrow sled.

There is no direct antonym for Rodel.

Common phrases & collocations

  • mit dem Rodel fahren — to go sledding.
  • rodeln gehen — to go sledding; rodeln is the related verb.
  • eine Rodelbahn — a sledding track or toboggan run.

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Examples

Ich fahre mit dem Rodel den kleinen Hügel hinunter.noun

I ride down the small hill with the sled.

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