seal
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seal
An official stamped impression, often made of wax or by embossing, that confirms the authenticity of a document or secures a closure.
Der Brief des Königs war mit einem roten Wachssiegel verschlossen.
The king's letter was sealed with a red wax seal.
The noun 'das Siegel' (the seal) is closely related to the verb 'versiegeln' (to seal). 'Versiegeln' means to officially close something with a seal.
Der Notar muss das Testament offiziell versiegeln.
The notary must officially seal the will.
In the meaning of a closure, a seal is often 'aufgedrückt' (pressed on) or 'gebrochen' (broken). It is often made of 'Wachs' (wax) and secures a 'Dokument' (document) or a 'Brief' (letter).
Er brach das Siegel des alten Briefes mit zitternden Händen.
He broke the seal of the old letter with trembling hands.
As a quality mark, 'Siegel' (seal) is often used in compound words such as 'Bio-Siegel' (organic seal), 'Qualitätssiegel' (quality seal), or 'Prüfsiegel' (inspection seal). A product 'trägt' ein Siegel (carries a seal) or is 'mit einem Siegel ausgezeichnet' (awarded a seal).
Dieses Produkt trägt das europäische Bio-Siegel.
This product carries the European organic seal.
The figurative meaning of 'Siegel' (seal) as a sign or confirmation is used mainly in elevated or literary language.
Sein Versprechen war für sie das Siegel ihrer Freundschaft.
For her, his promise was the seal of their friendship.
sign / symbol
'das Zeichen' and 'das Siegel' can both show or confirm something. However, 'Zeichen' is much more general: it can be a symbol, a marking, or an indication. 'Siegel' is used for an official or especially recognized sign, for example on a document or on a product. A 'Siegel' often feels more binding than a normal 'Zeichen'. In practical terms: every 'Siegel' can be a kind of 'Zeichen', but not every 'Zeichen' is a 'Siegel'.
Auf dem Honigglas ist ein Siegel, das die biologische Herstellung bestätigt.
There is a seal on the jar of honey confirming that it was produced organically.
Das rote Zeichen an der Tür bedeutet, dass der Raum gerade nicht betreten werden darf.
The red sign on the door means that the room may not be entered right now.