noun

die Wange, -n

cheek

Teil des Gesichts links und rechts neben Mund und Nase, der weich ist und sich beim Lächeln hebt.

Definition & meaning

The word Wange primarily refers to the side of the human face. It describes the fleshy area located below the eyes and between the nose and the ears. In a literary or poetic context, it is often used to describe someone's complexion, such as having "roten Wangen" (red cheeks).

Beyond anatomy, the term is used in technical and architectural contexts:

Architecture: It refers to the side pieces of a staircase that support the steps, known as the Treppenwange .
Mechanics: It can describe the side walls or supporting frames of various machines, tools, or furniture (like the sides of a bed frame or a press).

Grammar & Word origin

Wange is a feminine noun. Its plural form is Wangen.

The word originates from the Old High German word wanga, which also meant "cheek." It is related to the Middle High German wange. Etymologically, it is connected to a root meaning "curved" or "rounded," which describes the natural shape of this part of the face . Unlike many other German anatomical terms, it does not have a direct cognate in modern English that sounds similar, though it serves the same function as the English word "cheek."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

Backe : This is the most common synonym. While "Wange" is often perceived as more refined or anatomical, "Backe" is more colloquial. Note that "Backe" can also refer to the buttocks (Gesäßbacke), whereas "Wange" is strictly used for the face or technical parts.
Antlitz : A very formal or poetic word for the whole face, which includes the cheeks.
Seitenteil : A synonym used in technical contexts to describe the side part of an object.

Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms for a body part like a cheek. However, in terms of facial positioning, one might consider: