01
der Scheitel
part
The line on the head where the hair is combed in two different directions.
example
Er trägt seinen Scheitel immer auf der linken Seite.
He always wears his part on the left side.
der Scheitel
part / peak / crown
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Der Scheitel' is related to the verb 'scheiden' (to separate). The basic idea of a dividing line or a highest point that separates two sides can be seen in all meanings.
EXAMPLE
Mit einem Kamm zog er einen geraden Scheitel.
With a comb, he made a straight part.
Context clues
When the context is hair, such as 'kämmen' (to comb) or 'Frisur' (hairstyle), it refers to the part in the hair. In the context of mountains, waves, or mathematics, it means the highest point. In connection with body height, it means the top of the head.
EXAMPLE
Er trägt einen Seitenscheitel.
He wears a side part.
Typical collocations
In connection with hairstyles, the verbs 'einen Scheitel ziehen' (to make a part) and 'einen Scheitel tragen' (to wear a part) are very common. A distinction is also made between 'Mittelscheitel' (middle part) and 'Seitenscheitel' (side part).
EXAMPLE
Sie hat sich heute einen Mittelscheitel gekämmt.
She combed her hair into a middle part today.
Fixed expression
The expression 'vom Scheitel bis zur Sohle' means 'from head to toe' or 'completely'. It is often used to describe a person or their clothing.
EXAMPLE
Er war vom Scheitel bis zur Sohle in Schwarz gekleidet.
He was dressed in black from head to toe.
Compare with
Scheitel vs Spitze
tip / top / lace
'die Spitze' and 'der Scheitel' can both mean the highest point of something. However, 'die Spitze' is much more general and sounds natural in everyday language especially for mountains, towers, or objects. 'der Scheitel' is more suitable for a curve, an arch, a wave, or, in technical language, a highest point. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with 'oben' (up / at the top). In practice: for a mountain, people usually say 'die Spitze' or 'der Gipfel'; for a curve, 'der Scheitel' or 'der Scheitelpunkt' is more likely.
Scheitel
Der Ball flog in einem hohen Bogen, und am Scheitel der Kurve war er kaum noch zu sehen.
The ball flew in a high arc, and at the peak of the curve it was barely visible anymore.
Spitze
Nach drei Stunden Wanderung erreichten wir endlich die Spitze des Berges.
After three hours of hiking, we finally reached the peak of the mountain.
In real life
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