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Kumpel
/ˈkʊmpl̩/
buddy
Mein Kumpel und ich gehen heute ins Kino.
My buddy and I are going to the cinema today.
informal
A close male friend, often used in informal contexts to refer to a buddy or pal.
Wir haben uns mit ein paar Kumpeln zum Grillen getroffen.
We met up with a few buddies for a barbecue.
The term is gender-neutral in modern usage but historically referred to male friends.
Collocations
Kumpel vonbuddy ofKumpel seinto be buddies
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Gender-neutral usage
'Kumpel' is now widely used for both male and female friends, though it originally referred to male friends.
Gold Rule
Informal context
Use 'Kumpel' in casual, friendly conversations. Avoid it in formal or professional settings.
Word Origin
Derived from the Middle High German 'kumbe' (companion) and the suffix '-el' (diminutive), originally referring to a male friend or comrade.
Usage Notes
While traditionally used for male friends, 'Kumpel' is now commonly used for both genders in informal contexts. In some regions, it may carry a slightly rough or working-class connotation.
Word Breakdown
Kump
companion
root-el
diminutive or affectionate suffix
suffixDeutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch