01
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
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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
'der Fuß' and 'der Sockel' can both refer to the lower part of something. 'Fuß' fits better when you mean the lower part or support of an object in general, for example with a glass, table, or mountain. 'Sockel' sounds more precise when it is about a fixed base that something stands on, for example a statue or a column. The lower part of a building wall can also be called 'Sockel'. The words can be confused because both carry something at the bottom. A practical tip: a 'Fuß' is often directly part of the object, while a 'Sockel' is often a separate base underneath it.
Sockel
Auf dem Sockel vor dem Rathaus steht eine alte Statue.
An old statue stands on the pedestal in front of the town hall.
Fuß
Der Fuß des Weinglases ist sehr dünn und bricht leicht.
The stem of the wine glass is very thin and breaks easily.
In real life
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