A short text at the beginning of a book, work of art, or piece of music with which the author or artist dedicates the work to a particular person.
example
Das Buch beginnt mit der Widmung „Für meine Eltern“.
The book begins with the dedication 'For my parents.'
Usage tips
Word family
'Die Widmung' (dedication) is derived from the verb 'widmen' (to dedicate). The constructions with the verb help you understand the meanings: 'jemandem ein Buch widmen' (to dedicate a book to someone; meaning 1) and 'sich einer Aufgabe widmen' (to devote oneself to a task; meaning 2).
EXAMPLE
Er widmete sein Leben der Musik.
He devoted his life to music.
Typical form
A dedication in a book or work of art is usually a short text that often begins with the preposition 'Für' (for), followed by a name.
EXAMPLE
Auf der ersten Seite stand die handschriftliche Widmung des Autors.
On the first page was the author's handwritten dedication.
Grammatical patterns
When it is about devotion, 'Widmung' (dedication / devotion) is often used with the preposition 'an' (+ accusative) or a genitive to name the object of the devotion.
EXAMPLE
Seine Widmung an das Projekt war beeindruckend.
His devotion to the project was impressive.
Register: technical language
This meaning of 'Widmung' (dedication) is a technical term from administrative law. You encounter it almost only in official or legal texts that refer to public areas such as roads or parks.
EXAMPLE
Die Widmung des Platzes als öffentliche Grünfläche wurde von der Stadt genehmigt.
The dedication of the square as a public green space was approved by the city.
Compare with
near_synonym
Widmung vs Einsatz
operation / effort / use
'der Einsatz' and 'die Widmung' can both express that someone puts a lot of energy and attention into something. 'Einsatz' sounds more practical and emphasizes concrete effort: someone works a lot, helps a lot, or makes an effort. 'Widmung' in this meaning sounds more elevated and refers more to deep, lasting devotion to a goal, task, or person. In everyday language, you usually use 'Einsatz'. 'Widmung' fits better in more serious or more formal contexts.
Widmung
Seine Widmung für die Musik war in jedem Konzert zu spüren.
His devotion to music could be felt in every concert.
Einsatz
Mit viel Einsatz bereitete sich die Gruppe auf die Prüfung vor.
With a lot of effort, the group prepared for the exam.