The country, region, or place where one was born or grew up and to which one has a deep emotional connection.
example
Nach vielen Jahren im Ausland kehrte er in seine Heimat zurück.
After many years abroad, he returned to his homeland.
Usage tips
Word family
'Heimat' (homeland/home) is closely related to the word 'das Heim' (home). Both words express the idea of a place where one feels a sense of belonging and safety.
EXAMPLE
Nach langer Reise war er froh, wieder daheim zu sein.
After a long journey, he was glad to be home again.
Cultural context
The word 'Heimat' (homeland/home) has a strong emotional meaning in German. It describes not only one's place of origin, but also a deep feeling of belonging, identity, and often nostalgia.
EXAMPLE
Für viele Auswanderer bleibt die alte Heimat ein wichtiger Teil ihres Lebens.
For many emigrants, their old homeland remains an important part of their lives.
Context clue
When 'Heimat' (home/native habitat) is used in connection with animals or plants, it means 'natürlicher Lebensraum' (natural habitat). The context makes this biological meaning clear.
EXAMPLE
Die tropischen Regenwälder sind die Heimat unzähliger Tierarten.
The tropical rainforests are home to countless animal species.
Compare with
antonym · confusable
Heimat vs Ausland
abroad
'das Ausland' and 'die Heimat' can be contrasted in conversations about countries, travel, and living in a place. 'Ausland' means countries outside one's own country or outside the country one is currently in. 'Heimat' means the place or region with which someone has a strong personal connection. The words can be confused because both often have to do with leaving, coming back, or living in another country. The important point is: 'Heimat' is not simply the opposite of 'Ausland' in a political sense, but often carries a feeling of belonging.
Heimat
Für Mehmet bleibt seine Heimat der kleine Ort, in dem er aufgewachsen ist.
For Mehmet, his home remains the small place where he grew up.
Ausland
Nach dem Studium möchte sie ein Jahr im Ausland arbeiten.
After her studies, she wants to work abroad for a year.