01
der Storch
stork
A large white bird with long red legs and a long red beak that often nests on roofs or chimneys.
example
Auf dem Kirchturm hat ein Storch sein Nest gebaut.
A stork has built its nest on the church tower.
der Storch
stork
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Typical sound
The characteristic sound that a stork makes with its beak is described with the verb 'klappern' (to clatter). This combination is very typical.
EXAMPLE
Hör mal, der Storch auf dem Dach klappert.
Listen, the stork on the roof is clattering.
Cultural context
The idea that the stork brings babies is an old myth in many European cultures. In the past, it was often used as a simple explanation for children about birth.
EXAMPLE
Meine Oma hat mir als Kind immer erzählt, der Storch hätte mich gebracht.
My grandma always told me when I was a child that the stork had brought me.
Context clue
When 'Storch' (stork) is mentioned in conversation in connection with babies, children, or pregnancy, it almost always refers to the mythical figure and not the bird.
EXAMPLE
Ihre Nachbarn haben Nachwuchs bekommen, da war wohl der Storch da.
Their neighbors have had a baby; the stork must have been there.
Compare with
Storch vs Flamingo
flamingo
'der Storch' and 'der Flamingo' are both large birds with long legs. That is why they can easily be confused in pictures or at the zoo. A stork is usually white with black wings, red legs, and a red, straight beak. It often nests on roofs or chimneys. A flamingo is usually pink, lives near water, and has a long curved neck. Its beak is noticeably curved. A practical tip: 'der Storch' is associated with roofs and nests in Central Europe, while 'der Flamingo' is more associated with warm regions and water.
Storch
Auf dem Schornstein sitzt ein Storch in seinem großen Nest.
A stork is sitting in its large nest on the chimney.
Flamingo
Im Zoo steht ein Flamingo auf einem Bein am Wasser.
At the zoo, a flamingo is standing on one leg by the water.
In real life
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