01
der Igel
hedgehog
A small nocturnal mammal with a coat of spines that rolls itself into a ball when in danger.
example
Im Herbst hat ein Igel in unserem Garten überwintert.
In the fall, a hedgehog hibernated in our garden.
der Igel
hedgehog
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clues
The three meanings of 'Igel' (hedgehog/IGeL service/spiky haircut) are very different and become clear from context. If it is about the garden or animals, the mammal is meant. In a conversation with a doctor, it refers to the health service. At the hairdresser's or in the context of appearance, it refers to the hairstyle.
EXAMPLE
Vorsicht, da läuft ein Igel über die Straße!
Careful, there's a hedgehog crossing the road!
Typical behavior
A characteristic behavior of the animal is often described with the verb 'sich zusammenrollen' (to roll oneself up). When a hedgehog is afraid, it rolls itself into a ball to protect itself with its spines.
EXAMPLE
Als das Auto kam, hat sich der Igel schnell zusammengerollt.
When the car came, the hedgehog quickly rolled itself up.
Word structure
In a medical context, 'Igel' (or 'IGeL') is an acronym. It stands for 'Individuelle Gesundheitsleistung' (individual health service). These are medical services that you have to pay for yourself.
EXAMPLE
Mein Arzt hat mir eine professionelle Zahnreinigung als IGeL empfohlen.
My doctor recommended a professional teeth cleaning to me as an IGeL service.
Visual comparison
The hairstyle is called 'Igel' (hedgehog) because the short hairs standing upward are reminiscent of a hedgehog's spines. This visual comparison helps you remember the meaning.
EXAMPLE
Mit seinem neuen Igel sieht er viel jünger aus.
With his new spiky haircut, he looks much younger.
In real life
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