medieval
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medieval
Related to the Middle Ages (roughly the 5th to 15th century) or originating from that time.
Die Altstadt hat noch viele gut erhaltene mittelalterliche Gebäude.
The old town still has many well-preserved medieval buildings.
medieval
Used figuratively and disparagingly for something perceived as outdated, backward, or uncivilized.
Solche Foltermethoden sind einfach nur mittelalterlich.
Such torture methods are simply medieval.
The adjective is formed from 'das Mittelalter' (the Middle Ages) and the ending '-lich' (-ly/-al). So it literally means 'belonging to the Middle Ages'.
Auf dem Fest gab es mittelalterliche Musik und Tänze.
There was medieval music and dancing at the festival.
The context reveals the meaning. If the word refers to historical things like castles, cities, or art, it is meant neutrally. If it refers to methods, views, or conditions, it is usually negative and means 'backward'.
Wir besuchten eine mittelalterliche Burg in Frankreich.
We visited a medieval castle in France.
In its neutral, historical meaning, 'mittelalterlich' (medieval) often describes concrete things from this era. Typical combinations are 'eine mittelalterliche Stadt' (a medieval city), 'ein mittelalterlicher Markt' (a medieval market), or 'mittelalterliche Handschriften' (medieval manuscripts).
Die Forscher entzifferten eine mittelalterliche Handschrift.
The researchers deciphered a medieval manuscript.
In the figurative, negative meaning, 'mittelalterlich' (medieval) is often used with abstract nouns. Common examples are 'mittelalterliche Methoden' (medieval methods), 'mittelalterliche Zustände' (medieval conditions), or 'mittelalterliche Strafen' (medieval punishments).
Die Arbeitsbedingungen in dieser Fabrik sind absolut mittelalterlich.
The working conditions in this factory are absolutely medieval.
