Days of the Week in German: A Comprehensive Guide

Learning the days of the week in German is essential for anyone studying the language. Whether you're planning a trip to Germany, engaging in conversations with German speakers, or simply expanding your vocabulary, understanding the names of the days is crucial. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed explanation of each day's name, including its origins, etymology, and cultural significance. Let's delve into the fascinating world of German weekdays.
1. **Montag:** "Monday", derived from the Old High German "mâna tag" meaning "moon day." It signifies the beginning of the workweek.
2. **Dienstag:** "Tuesday," originating from the Old High German "zîo tag" meaning "god of war day," referring to the Norse god Tyr.
3. **Mittwoch:** "Wednesday," coming from the Old High German "Wotan tag" meaning "Woden's day," honoring the Germanic god Woden.
4. **Donnerstag:** "Thursday," derived from the Old High German "Donar tag" meaning "Thor's day," referring to the Norse god Thor.
5. **Freitag:** "Friday," stemming from the Old High German "Frija tag" meaning "Frigg's day," named after the Norse goddess Frigg.
6. **Samstag:** "Saturday," rooted in the Old High German "Sambaz tac" meaning "Sabbath day," referring to the Jewish Sabbath.
7. **Sonntag:** "Sunday," originating from the Old High German "sunnan tag" meaning "sun day," signifying the day of worship and rest.