Zapf, -en

Definition & meaning

Zapf! is usually the informal singular command form of zapfen—“to tap,” “to draw,” or “to pour from a tap.” Depending on context, it can mean:

• “Pour/draw [a drink]!” For example, beer poured from a keg.
• “Tap [something]!” For example, making a small opening in a tree to collect its sap.

Written at the beginning of a sentence, Zapf may also simply be the verb zapf capitalized. As a standalone word, Zapf is not normally a common German noun; it can also occur as a surname.

Grammar & Word origin

Zapf is the du (informal singular) imperative of the verb zapfen. The verb is related to Zapfen (“plug,” “spigot,” or “cone”), reflecting the idea of drawing something through an opening or tap.

Synonyms & antonyms

There is no single direct antonym; the opposite depends on the situation.

• einschenken ↗ (“pour into a glass”) is broader and does not necessarily imply using a tap.
• ausschenken ↗ (“serve or pour drinks”) often emphasizes serving drinks to customers.
• abfüllen ↗ (“bottle or fill into a container”) focuses on transferring liquid into a container rather than drawing it from a tap.

Common phrases & collocations

• Bier zapfen ↗ — to draw beer from a tap.
• ein Fass anzapfen ↗ — to tap a keg.
• einen Baum anzapfen ↗ — to tap a tree for its sap.