01
der Widder
ram
A male sheep, often characterized by its large, curved horns.
example
Der Widder führte die Schafherde auf die Weide.
The ram led the flock of sheep onto the pasture.
der Widder
ram / Aries
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Meaning in context
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'Widder' (ram / Aries) from context. If it is about animals and nature, it means the male sheep. In connection with astrology, it is the zodiac sign. In historical texts about wars, it refers to the siege weapon.
EXAMPLE
Auf dem Bauernhof gab es viele Schafe und einen großen Widder.
There were many sheep and one large ram on the farm.
Feature: the horns
The animal is often described by its characteristic twisted or curved horns. In descriptions, you will therefore often find the adjective 'gehörnt' (horned) or a mention of the horns.
EXAMPLE
Der Widder stieß mit seinen kräftigen Hörnern gegen den Zaun.
The ram butted against the fence with its strong horns.
Astrological context
When 'Widder' (Aries) means the zodiac sign, it often appears in phrases such as 'im Zeichen des Widders geboren sein' (to be born under the sign of Aries) or in combination with the word 'Sternzeichen' (zodiac sign).
EXAMPLE
Sie ist Sternzeichen Widder und gilt als sehr willensstark.
Her zodiac sign is Aries, and she is considered very strong-willed.
Character traits
In astrology, people born under the sign of Aries are often described as energetic, strong-willed, and impulsive. These traits are associated with the animal.
EXAMPLE
Typisch Widder! Er will immer mit dem Kopf durch die Wand.
Typical Aries! He always wants to force his way through.
Compare with
Widder vs Bock
desire / buck
'der Bock' and 'der Widder' can both mean a male animal. However, 'Bock' is more general and is used for various animal species, especially goats, sheep, or deer. 'Widder' more specifically means a male sheep, often with large curved horns. The words can be confused especially with sheep. If it is definitely about a male sheep, 'Widder' is more precise. For a goat, you normally say 'Bock' or 'Ziegenbock'.
Widder
Der Widder hat große Hörner und bleibt nah bei der Herde.
The ram has large horns and stays close to the herd.
Bock
Der Bock läuft auf der Weide hinter den Ziegen her.
The buck is walking across the pasture behind the goats.
In real life
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