fountain pen / filler
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fountain pen
A writing instrument that writes with liquid ink from a cartridge or a converter. The full name is Füllfederhalter.
In der Grundschule mussten wir alle mit einem Füller schreiben lernen.
In elementary school, we all had to learn to write with a fountain pen.
filler
Something that serves to fill a gap, whether in a text, a program, or packaging. It often has less importance than the main content.
Der letzte Artikel in der Zeitung war nur ein Füller, um die Seite voll zu bekommen.
The last article in the newspaper was just filler to fill up the page.
'Der Füller' is derived from the verb 'füllen' (to fill). This helps you understand both meanings: the pen is an object that you fill with ink, and filler content is something that fills a gap.
Bitte fülle die Flasche mit Wasser.
Please fill the bottle with water.
The context makes the meaning clear. If people are talking about school, writing, or office supplies, the pen is meant. If it is about media, packaging, or filling gaps, 'Füllinhalt' (filler content) is meant.
Ich brauche für meinen Füller neue Tintenpatronen.
I need new ink cartridges for my fountain pen.
'Füller' is the common short form for 'der Füllfederhalter' (fountain pen). In everyday life, the short form is almost always used.
Mein alter Füller aus der Schulzeit schreibt immer noch gut.
My old fountain pen from my school days still writes well.
In this meaning, the word often has a slightly negative connotation. It implies that the content is not especially important and only serves to fill space.
Das letzte Lied auf dem Album wirkt wie ein Füller.
The last song on the album feels like filler.
