spike
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spike
A spike-like protein on the surface of a virus that helps the virus enter host cells. The term became especially well known through the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.
Die Impfung zielt auf das Spike-Protein des Virus ab.
The vaccine targets the virus's spike protein.
spike
A short, pointed metal pin attached to shoe soles (e.g., for track and field) or to tires to improve grip on ice or soft ground.
Für den Sprint auf der Tartanbahn braucht man Schuhe mit Spikes.
For sprinting on the tartan track, you need shoes with spikes.
The word 'Spike' is borrowed directly from English, where it means 'Stachel' (spike) or 'Spitze' (point/tip). This original meaning helps you understand both German uses: the spike on a virus and the pin on a shoe.
Das Virus nutzt seine Spikes, um an Zellen anzudocken.
The virus uses its spikes to dock onto cells.
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'Spike' from context. In connection with viruses, biology, or medicine, it refers to the protein. In the context of sports, shoes, cars, or winter tires, it refers to the metal pins.
Die Forschung konzentriert sich auf die Spikes des neuen Virus.
Research is focusing on the spikes of the new virus.
In a biological context, 'Spike' is very often used as part of the compound 'Spike-Protein' (spike protein). It is often treated as a single term.
Das Spike-Protein ist der Schlüssel für das Virus, um in die Zelle zu gelangen.
The spike protein is the key for the virus to enter the cell.
When talking about shoes or tires, the word is usually used in the plural 'Spikes' (spikes), because it rarely refers to just one single pin. The combination with the preposition 'mit' (with) is typical.
Meine neuen Laufschuhe haben austauschbare Spikes.
My new running shoes have replaceable spikes.
stollen / tunnel / cleat
Both Stollen and Spike can refer to pointed protrusions on the sole of a sports shoe and provide better grip. Stollen is used especially for soccer shoes, while Spike is mainly used for shoes for running and track and field. The sport and the surface help determine which term to choose.
Die Spikes an ihren Leichtathletikschuhen geben ihr auf der Laufbahn guten Halt.
The spikes on her track shoes give her good traction on the track.
Die Stollen an seinen Fußballschuhen geben ihm auf dem Rasen guten Halt.
The cleats on his soccer shoes give him good traction on the grass.
