der Umhang
cloak
A wide, usually sleeveless garment that is placed over the shoulders and wraps around the body.
EXAMPLE
Der Zauberer trug einen langen, schwarzen Umhang mit Sternen.
The wizard wore a long black cloak with stars.
der Umhang
cloak
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word 'Umhang' (cloak) is made up of the preposition 'um' (around) and a form of the verb 'hängen' (to hang). It literally describes a garment that you 'hang' around your shoulders.
EXAMPLE
Bei dem kalten Wind legte sie sich den Umhang enger um die Schultern.
In the cold wind, she wrapped the cloak more tightly around her shoulders.
Typical verbs
Common verbs used with 'Umhang' (cloak) are 'einen Umhang tragen' (to wear a cloak), 'sich einen Umhang umlegen' (to put a cloak around oneself), or 'sich in einen Umhang hüllen' (to wrap oneself in a cloak).
EXAMPLE
Der Wanderer hüllte sich fest in seinen Umhang.
The hiker wrapped himself tightly in his cloak.
Typical context
The word 'Umhang' (cloak) is often used in contexts involving fairy tales, fantasy, historical films, or costumes. It brings to mind figures such as wizards, kings, or superheroes.
EXAMPLE
Für das Karnevalskostüm fehlt mir nur noch ein passender Umhang.
For the carnival costume, all I'm missing is a suitable cloak.
Compare with
Umhang vs Cape
cape
Cape and Umhang both refer to a usually sleeveless garment worn over the shoulders. A Cape is usually the more specific, often shorter and more fashionable form, while Umhang is the more general term for a wide garment that wraps around the body. Use Cape for this particular form and Umhang as a neutral term.
Umhang
Wegen des kalten Windes nahm er einen weiten Umhang über die Schultern.
Because of the cold wind, he draped a wide cloak over his shoulders.
Cape
Für die Feier legte sie ein kurzes schwarzes Cape über ihr Kleid.
For the celebration, she put a short black cape over her dress.
In real life
Loading video examples...