01
die Zecke
tick
A small, blood-sucking arachnid that feeds on humans and animals and can transmit diseases.
example
Nach dem Spaziergang im Wald hatte der Hund eine Zecke im Fell.
After the walk in the forest, the dog had a tick in its fur.
die Zecke
tick
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Context clue
You can easily recognize the meaning of the word from context. If people are talking about animals, nature, or diseases, the arachnid is meant. In a negative social context involving exploitation, the derogatory term for a person is meant.
EXAMPLE
Beim Wandern sollte man sich vor Zecken schützen.
When hiking, you should protect yourself from ticks.
Typical collocations
In connection with the animal, the verbs 'haben' (to have), 'entfernen' (to remove), or 'sich festsaugen' (to attach itself and suck blood) are often used. People also speak of a 'Zeckenbiss' (tick bite).
EXAMPLE
Ich glaube, ich habe eine Zecke am Bein.
I think I have a tick on my leg.
Register and style
This meaning is strongly colloquial and an insult. Use it only if you are aware of its negative and derogatory effect.
EXAMPLE
Er lebt auf Kosten seiner Eltern wie eine Zecke.
He lives at his parents' expense like a parasite.
Compare with
Zecke vs Floh
flea
'der Floh' and 'die Zecke' can both be small bloodsuckers and can occur on people or animals. Learners may confuse them because both are often relevant after spending time outdoors or with pets. A flea is an insect, jumps, and can move quickly through fur. A tick is a small arachnid that bites firmly into the skin and can transmit diseases. After a walk in the forest, you are more likely to check for ticks; when a pet is scratching a lot, you are more likely to think of fleas.
Zecke
Nach der Wanderung entdeckt Anna eine Zecke an ihrem Bein.
After the hike, Anna discovers a tick on her leg.
Floh
Die Katze kratzt sich ständig, weil sie einen Floh hat.
The cat keeps scratching because it has a flea.
In real life
Loading video examples...