noun

Scheide

scabbard · sheath

Definition & meaning

The word die Scheide has two primary meanings in German:

  1. Anatomy: It refers to the vagina, the internal female reproductive organ.
  2. Object/Sheath: It refers to a protective covering or case for a blade or tool, such as a sword sheath or knife scabbard.

In both contexts, the word historically carries the meaning of a "separator" or "dividing layer."

Grammar & Word origin

  • Grammar: It is a feminine noun (die Scheide), and its plural form is die Scheiden.
  • Origin: The word originates from the Old High German word sceida, meaning "division" or "separation." It is etymologically related to the verb scheiden (to separate, to divorce, or to depart). The logic is that the "Scheide" acts as a dividing space or a protective partition.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms (Meaning 1: Anatomy):

Synonyms (Meaning 2: Sheath):

  • Die Hülle
  • Das Futteral
  • Die Schwertscheide

Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms for this word, as it represents specific anatomical or functional objects.

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Examples

Das Schwert springt aus der Scheide.noun

The sword leaps out of the scabbard.

Die Schwerter sollen in die Scheide gesteckt werden.noun

The swords should be put into the sheath.

Ich ziehe mein Schwert aus der Scheide.noun

I draw my sword from the sheath.

Sie legt das Schwert in die Scheide.noun

She puts the sword into the sheath.

Sie steckt das Messer in die Scheide.noun

She puts the knife into the sheath.

Sie steckt das Schwert in die Scheide.noun

She puts the sword into the sheath.

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