German Words That Originate from Chinese287

The German language has been influenced by many different languages over the centuries, including Chinese. As a result, there are a number of German words that have Chinese origins. These words are often related to trade, food, and culture. Here is a list of some of the most common German words that come from Chinese:

Tee (tea): This word comes from the Chinese word "cha". Tea was first introduced to Europe by Portuguese traders in the 16th century, and it quickly became popular in Germany.

Porzellan (porcelain): This word comes from the Chinese word "ciqi". Porcelain is a type of ceramic that was first developed in China during the Tang dynasty. It was later introduced to Europe by Arab traders in the 13th century.

Seide (silk): This word comes from the Chinese word "si". Silk is a type of fabric that is made from the cocoons of silkworms. It was first produced in China around 2500 BC, and it was later introduced to Europe by the Silk Road.

Reis (rice): This word comes from the Chinese word "mi". Rice is a type of cereal grain that is grown in many parts of the world. It was first domesticated in China around 8000 BC, and it was later introduced to Europe by Arab traders in the 8th century.

Soja (soybean): This word comes from the Chinese word "dou". Soybeans are a type of legume that is native to East Asia. They were first domesticated in China around 2000 BC, and they were later introduced to Europe by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.

Ingwer (ginger): This word comes from the Chinese word "jiang". Ginger is a type of spice that is made from the root of the ginger plant. It was first grown in China around 5000 BC, and it was later introduced to Europe by Arab traders in the 13th century.

Kampfer (camphor): This word comes from the Chinese word "zhangnao". Camphor is a type of natural compound that is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It was first isolated in China around 1000 AD, and it was later introduced to Europe by Arab traders in the 13th century.

Nanke (nankeen): This word comes from the Chinese city of Nanjing. Nankeen is a type of cotton fabric that was first produced in Nanjing during the Ming dynasty. It was later introduced to Europe by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.

Drachen (dragon): This word comes from the Chinese word "long". Dragons are mythical creatures that are often associated with Chinese culture. They are often depicted as large, serpentine creatures with four legs and wings.

Feng Shui (feng shui): This word comes from the Chinese words "feng" (wind) and "shui" (water). Feng shui is a traditional Chinese system of geomancy that is used to determine the best location for buildings, furniture, and other objects. It is based on the belief that the flow of energy through a space can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of the people who live there.These are just a few of the many German words that have Chinese origins. These words reflect the long and rich history of trade and cultural exchange between China and Germany.

2025-02-07

Previous：Understanding German Word Divisions

Next：German Sheep: A Comprehensive Guide to the Versatile Working Breed