01
der Diener
servant
A male person employed in a household to perform personal services for his masters or employers.
example
Der Diener servierte den Tee auf einem Silbertablett.
The servant served the tea on a silver tray.
der Diener
servant
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'der Diener' (servant) is derived directly from the verb 'dienen' (to serve). Someone who serves is a Diener. This helps you understand the basic meaning of the word.
EXAMPLE
Er hat seinem Land treu gedient.
He served his country faithfully.
Historical context
In the meaning of a household servant, the word is outdated today. You mainly find it in historical novels, films, or stories about earlier times.
EXAMPLE
Im Schloss kümmerte sich ein Diener um die Wünsche der Gäste.
In the castle, a servant took care of the guests' wishes.
Fixed expression
As a piece of furniture, the word is almost always part of the term 'Stummer Diener' (valet stand). The name comes from the fact that the piece of furniture 'silently' keeps the clothes ready for the next day.
EXAMPLE
Seinen Anzug für die Konferenz hängte er abends auf den Stummen Diener.
In the evening, he hung his suit for the conference on the valet stand.
Use with genitive
In the figurative, formal meaning, a noun in the genitive often follows in order to say whom or what one serves. This construction is typical of an elevated style.
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker bezeichnete sich als Diener des Volkes.
The politician described himself as a servant of the people.
Compare with
Diener vs Herr
gentleman / Mr.
'der Herr' and 'der Diener' are opposites when referring to an old or formal power relationship. 'der Herr' is the person who has power and can give orders. 'der Diener' is the person who works for this master or subordinates himself to a person, cause, or task. In stories, historical texts, or formal language, this contrast is especially clear: the master decides, the servant serves.
Diener
Am Morgen brachte der Diener dem Gast frische Kleidung.
In the morning, the servant brought the guest fresh clothes.
Herr
Im Schloss entschied der Herr, wann das Abendessen serviert wurde.
In the castle, the master decided when dinner was served.
In real life
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