01
die Motorhaube
hood / bonnet
The hinged cover over the engine compartment at the front of a motor vehicle.
example
Der Mechaniker öffnete die Motorhaube, um den Ölstand zu kontrollieren.
The mechanic opened the hood to check the oil level.
die Motorhaube
hood / bonnet
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of 'Motor' (engine) and 'Haube' (hood / cover). A 'Haube' is a covering or lid. 'Motorhaube' is therefore literally the cover for the engine of a car.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem kleinen Unfall war eine Delle in der Motorhaube.
After the minor accident, there was a dent in the hood.
Typical verbs
In connection with the hood, the verbs 'öffnen' (to open), 'schließen' (to close), 'aufmachen' (to open), or 'aufklappen' (to flip open) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Könntest du bitte die Motorhaube aufmachen? Ich muss das Wischwasser nachfüllen.
Could you please open the hood? I need to refill the windshield washer fluid.
Typical actions
You typically open the hood to check or refill technical fluids, for example engine oil or coolant.
EXAMPLE
Als Rauch aus dem Motor kam, hielt er sofort an und öffnete die Motorhaube.
When smoke came from the engine, he stopped immediately and opened the hood.
Compare with
Motorhaube vs Haube
cap / hood
'Haube' and 'Motorhaube' can both refer to a cover. 'Haube' is the more general term and can refer to various covers, for example in the kitchen or on machines. 'Motorhaube' is much more specific: it is the hinged cover over the engine compartment of a car. The words can be confused because 'Motorhaube' contains the word 'Haube'. But when talking about a car, 'Motorhaube' is clearer and more natural. 'Haube' on its own can mean something else in many situations.
Motorhaube
Nach der Fahrt öffnet Paul die Motorhaube und prüft den Ölstand.
After the drive, Paul opens the hood and checks the oil level.
Haube
Beim Kochen schaltet Maria die Haube ein, damit der Dampf abzieht.
When cooking, Maria turns on the hood so the steam can clear.
In real life
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