A deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves and fragrant blossoms, often planted along avenues or in village squares.
example
Unter der alten Linde im Dorfzentrum treffen sich die Leute.
People meet under the old linden tree in the village center.
Usage tips
Cultural context
The linden tree has great cultural significance in Germany. Often a 'Dorflinde' (village linden tree) stands in the center of a village and serves as a traditional meeting place for festivals and the community.
EXAMPLE
Das Dorffest findet wie jedes Jahr unter der großen Linde statt.
As every year, the village festival takes place under the large linden tree.
Productive compounds
The word stem 'Linde' (linden tree) is part of many well-known words. Examples include 'Lindenallee' (an avenue lined with linden trees), 'Lindenblüte' (linden blossom), or the famous Berlin boulevard 'Unter den Linden' (Under the Linden Trees).
EXAMPLE
Im Sommer duftet die ganze Lindenallee nach den Blüten.
In summer, the whole linden-lined avenue smells of the blossoms.
Typical collocations
The blossoms of the linden tree are very well known and are often used for tea. That is why the combination 'Lindenblütentee' (linden blossom tea) is very common when talking about colds or soothing drinks.
EXAMPLE
Bei einer Erkältung trinke ich gerne heißen Lindenblütentee mit Honig.
When I have a cold, I like to drink hot linden blossom tea with honey.