die Theke, -n
counter
Ein langer Tisch oder Aufbau in einem Laden, Café oder einer Bar, an dem man bestellt, bezahlt oder bedient wird.
Definition & meaning
The word "Theke" refers to a long, waist-high piece of furniture or fixture found in business establishments. It has two main uses:
- In gastronomy, it is the counter in a bar, pub, or cafe where drinks are prepared and served. It often serves as a place for guests to sit on high stools and consume their beverages.
- In retail, it is the service counter or sales counter where goods are displayed, weighed, or handed over to the customer, and where the payment process usually occurs.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a feminine noun (die Theke). Its plural form is "die Theken".
Etymologically, it originates from the Greek word "thēkē", which means "receptacle", "box", or "storage place". This root is also found in other German words that imply a place of storage or collection, such as Apotheke or Bibliothek.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: Tresen - This is a very common synonym, especially in northern Germany, specifically referring to a bar counter. Ladentisch - Used specifically for the counter in a shop. Schanktisch - A more technical or traditional term for a bar counter where drinks are poured. Counter - Often used in modern business contexts or at airports. Büfett - Can sometimes be used when referring to a serving area for food.
Antonyms: There are no direct linguistic antonyms for "Theke" as it is a physical object. However, in a spatial context within a restaurant, one might contrast it with the Gastraum (the seating area for guests) or the Küche (the kitchen area).
Make “Theke” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Die Getränke stehen auf der Theke.noun
The drinks are on the counter.
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad