der Stock, ¨-e

The German word "Stock" is a noun with several meanings, depending on context:

• Stock (der Stock) primarily means floor or storey in a building (e.g., "der erste Stock" = the first floor).
• It can also mean stick or cane (a piece of wood for support or walking).
• Another meaning is stem or stalk of a plant.

Similar words:

• Etage (floor/storey) — more formal/luxurious contexts
• Stockwerk (floor) — synonym, often interchangeably used
• Stab (rod, staff) — similar to stick, usually more slender and rigid

Difference:

• "Stock" as floor relates particularly to buildings, while "Etage" and "Stockwerk" are synonyms but "Etage" may sound more upscale.
• As a stick, "Stock" is more general; "Stab" often refers to a thinner, straighter rod, not used for walking support.