01
der Schmelz
enamel
The hard, protective outer layer of the teeth; tooth enamel.
example
Säurehaltige Getränke können den Zahnschmelz angreifen.
Acidic drinks can attack tooth enamel.
der Schmelz
enamel / warmth
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Der Schmelz' (enamel/warmth) is the noun related to the verb 'schmelzen' (to melt). The basic meaning refers to a substance applied by melting (enamel). The other meanings derive from this: the hard protective layer on the teeth and the “melting” quality of a voice.
EXAMPLE
Die Schokolade schmilzt langsam im Topf.
The chocolate is slowly melting in the pot.
Context: medicine
In a medical or dental context, 'Schmelz' (enamel) always means tooth enamel. Watch for words like 'Zahn' (tooth), 'Karies' (cavities/tooth decay), 'Säure' (acid), or 'Zahnpasta' (toothpaste). The word 'Zahnschmelz' (tooth enamel) is also very common.
EXAMPLE
Diese spezielle Zahnpasta soll den Zahnschmelz schützen.
This special toothpaste is supposed to protect tooth enamel.
Context: music & voice
The meaning 'warmer Klang' (warm sound) is found only in connection with music or voices. Typical signal words are 'Stimme' (voice), 'Gesang' (singing), 'singen' (to sing), or the names of musical instruments.
EXAMPLE
Der Sänger ist berühmt für den besonderen Schmelz in seiner Stimme.
The singer is famous for the special warmth in his voice.
Context: arts and crafts
When 'Schmelz' refers to the glass-like substance enamel, the context is usually art, jewelry, or crafts. You will then find the word together with terms like 'Brosche' (brooch), 'Vase' (vase), 'Keramik' (ceramics), or 'verziert' (decorated).
EXAMPLE
Die alte Brosche war mit einem feinen blauen Schmelz verziert.
The old brooch was decorated with a fine blue enamel.
Compare with
Schmelz vs Email
enamel
'Email' and 'Schmelz' overlap in two areas. Both can mean the hard protective layer of the teeth. In addition, both can refer to a glass-like coating for metal, ceramics, or glass. 'Schmelz' sounds very natural for teeth, especially in the form 'Zahnschmelz' (tooth enamel). 'Email' is heard more often for objects with a fired, glass-like coating. The words can be confusing because they are very close in these meanings. So pay attention to the context: for teeth, people usually say 'Schmelz' or 'Zahnschmelz'; for coated objects, often 'Email'.
Schmelz
Zu viel Säure kann den Schmelz der Zähne angreifen.
Too much acid can attack the enamel of the teeth.
Email
Am Montag haben wir im Museum eine Schale mit grüner Email gesehen.
On Monday, we saw a bowl with green enamel at the museum.
In real life
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