der Sockel
pedestal
A substructure or base on which a statue, column, or similar object stands in order to support it and make it stand out.
EXAMPLE
Die Statue wurde von ihrem Sockel gestoßen.
The statue was knocked off its pedestal.
der Sockel
base / pedestal / socket
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Meanings
der Sockel
base
The lowest part of the exterior wall of a building, often set off visually from the rest.
EXAMPLE
Der Sockel des Hauses ist dunkelgrau gestrichen.
The base of the house is painted dark gray.
der Sockel
socket
The part of a light bulb, processor, or other electronic component that contains the contacts and fits into a socket.
EXAMPLE
Für diese Lampe brauchst du eine Glühbirne mit einem E14-Sockel.
For this lamp, you need a light bulb with an E14 base.
Usage tips
Context clues
You can recognize the meaning of 'Sockel' (base / pedestal / socket) from the context. If it is about art or monuments, it means the base of a statue. In connection with buildings, it means the lowest part of the house wall. In technology, it refers to the connection for components such as light bulbs.
EXAMPLE
Die Statue steht auf einem hohen Sockel aus Marmor.
The statue stands on a high marble pedestal.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'jemanden vom Sockel stoßen' (to knock someone off their pedestal) means to end a person's high status or the admiration for them. It is often used figuratively.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Skandal wurde der Politiker schnell vom Sockel gestoßen.
After the scandal, the politician was quickly knocked off his pedestal.
Typical prepositions
Pay attention to the case with prepositions. 'Auf dem Sockel' (on the pedestal; dative) describes a position, while 'auf den Sockel' (onto the pedestal; accusative) expresses a direction or movement.
EXAMPLE
Das Denkmal steht sicher auf seinem Sockel.
The monument stands securely on its pedestal.
Technical specification
In the technical meaning, 'Sockel' (socket/base) is often combined with a code or another noun to specify the exact type. Examples are 'E27-Sockel' (E27 base) for light bulbs or 'CPU-Sockel' (CPU socket) for computers.
EXAMPLE
Ich brauche eine neue Glühbirne mit einem E27-Sockel.
I need a new light bulb with an E27 base.
Compare with
Sockel vs Fuß
foot
For furniture, Fuß and Sockel can both refer to the supporting lower part. A Fuß is usually a single support, while a Sockel is more likely to form a continuous base. If a cabinet has separate supports, Füße is appropriate; if it rests on a closed base, Sockel is the better choice.
Sockel
Der Schrank steht auf einem durchgehenden Sockel.
The cabinet stands on a continuous plinth.
Fuß
Der Schrank steht auf vier schmalen Füßen.
The cabinet stands on four slender feet.
In real life
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