noun

die Welle, -n

wave

Eine Bewegung im Wasser, die wie ein kleiner Hügel aussieht und sich über die Oberfläche bewegt.

The German word "Welle" is a noun meaning "wave".

  • It refers to a moving ridge or swell on the surface of water (e.g., ocean waves).
  • It can also mean figurative waves, like a wave of emotions or a wave of protests.

Words it is made of: "Welle" is a basic noun and not a compound.

Similar words:

  • Brandung – surf, breakers (waves breaking near shore)
  • Wellengang – wave motion or swell (often at sea)
  • Schwingung – oscillation or vibration (wave in physics)

Differences:

  • "Welle" is the general term for a wave (water or metaphorical).
  • "Brandung" specifies breaking waves near the shore.
  • "Wellengang" focuses on the motion of waves over water.
  • "Schwingung" is used more for waves in physics or sound, rather than ocean waves.

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Examples

Die Welle bricht sich am Strand.noun

The wave breaks on the beach.

Am Strand sehen wir eine große Welle.noun

At the beach, we see a big wave.

Gestern hörten wir die Wellen laut rauschen.noun

Yesterday we heard the waves roar loudly.

Kannst du über die hohen Wellen springen?noun

Can you jump over the high waves?

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