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B1 noun #7,500 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

der Kamin

Top 7,500

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces der Kamin en 30 secondes

Explication der Kamin in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that 'der Kamin' means fireplace or chimney. You might see it in basic vocabulary lists about the house. It is a masculine noun ('der'). You can use it in very simple sentences like 'Das ist ein Kamin' (That is a fireplace) or 'Der Kamin ist warm' (The fireplace is warm). You should also know that 'Kamin' is often used during Christmas lessons because of Santa Claus. Think of it as a part of a house, like 'das Fenster' (window) or 'die Tür' (door). Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on the word and its gender. You might also hear 'Kaminfeuer', which means the fire in the fireplace. It's a nice word to know if you like cozy things. Remember the plural is 'die Kamine'. If you are in a German house in winter, you might see one and can point at it and say 'Der Kamin ist schön'. It's a simple but useful word for describing a home.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'der Kamin' with basic prepositions and verbs. You should know that we usually sit 'am Kamin' (at/by the fireplace). You can describe activities: 'Im Winter sitzen wir oft am Kamin' (In winter we often sit by the fireplace). You might also learn about the 'Schornsteinfeger' (chimney sweep) as someone who brings luck. You can describe your house in more detail: 'Mein Traumhaus hat einen großen Kamin im Wohnzimmer'. You should be able to use the accusative case: 'Ich mache den Kamin an' (I am lighting the fireplace). You might also recognize compound words like 'Kaminholz' (firewood). The word is useful for talking about weather and seasons, specifically 'der Winter' and 'die Kälte'. You are beginning to understand that 'Kamin' can mean both the place for the fire and the pipe for the smoke, but usually, it's the cozy part inside the house that people talk about at this level.

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At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'der Kamin' in various contexts, including more abstract or social ones. You know the difference between 'Kamin' and 'Schornstein' (though they are often used as synonyms, 'Schornstein' is more technical for the exterior). You can use the genitive case, like 'das Knistern des Kamins' (the crackling of the fireplace). You might encounter the term 'Kamingespräch', which refers to an informal, high-level discussion. You should be able to talk about environmental issues related to fireplaces, such as 'Feinstaub' (fine dust) and wood-burning regulations. Your sentences should be more complex: 'Obwohl wir eine Zentralheizung haben, nutzen wir den Kamin, um eine gemütliche Atmosphäre zu schaffen.' You also understand regional differences, like the use of 'Cheminée' in Switzerland. You can describe the materials a Kamin is made of, like 'Marmor' (marble) or 'Backstein' (brick), and use related verbs like 'reinigen' (to clean) or 'kehren' (to sweep).

At the B2 level, you use 'der Kamin' with nuance and can follow discussions about its role in architecture and energy policy. You understand that a 'Kamin' is a significant selling point in German real estate and can discuss its pros and cons (e.g., carbon footprint vs. renewable energy). You are familiar with idiomatic or semi-formal uses like 'in den Kamin schreiben' (to write something off as a loss). You can describe the technical process of how a Kamin works using words like 'Abzug' (vent/draft) or 'Ruß' (soot). You might read news articles about the 'Schornsteinfeger-Monopol' or new laws regarding 'Kaminöfen'. Your vocabulary includes specialized terms like 'Ethanol-Kamin' or 'offener Kamin'. You can use the word in professional settings, such as discussing 'Kamin-Effekte' in building physics (where hot air rises and creates a draft). You are also aware of the cultural significance of the fireplace as a symbol of the 'bürgerliches Heim' (middle-class home) in literature and history.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the cultural and metaphorical weight of 'der Kamin'. You can analyze literary scenes where the Kamin serves as a symbol of domesticity, safety, or even confinement. You are proficient in using the word in highly formal contexts, such as 'Kamingespräche' in political science or history. You can discuss the etymology (from Latin 'caminus') and how it relates to other European languages. You understand the subtle register shifts between 'Kamin', 'Schornstein', 'Esse', and 'Schlot'. You can participate in complex debates about the transition from wood-burning to more sustainable heating methods and the impact on the 'Kulturgeschichte' (cultural history) of the German home. Your use of the word is flawless in all four cases and plural forms. You might use it in creative writing to evoke a specific atmosphere, using sensory details like 'der beißende Geruch von feuchtem Kaminholz' or 'das flackernde Licht des Kamins auf den alten Buchrücken'.

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At the C2 level, 'der Kamin' is a word you use with total native-like precision and stylistic flexibility. You can appreciate and use high-level metaphors and rare idioms. You understand the technical intricacies of 'Kaminbau' and can discuss historical heating systems in castles or 'Fachwerkhäuser'. You can critique architectural designs based on their 'Kaminführung' or environmental impact. You are aware of the legal nuances of the 'Kehr- und Überprüfungsordnung' (cleaning and inspection regulation). In a professional or academic setting, you can discuss the 'Kamineffekt' in various scientific fields, from fire safety to meteorology. Your understanding of the word is enriched by a vast knowledge of German culture, from the luck-bringing 'Schornsteinfeger' to the cozy 'Hüttenabend' by the Kamin. You can write sophisticated essays or give presentations where the Kamin is used as a focal point for discussing German sociology, environmentalism, or architectural history, moving effortlessly between the literal and the symbolic.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

der Kamin en 30 secondes

Der Kamin is a masculine noun meaning fireplace or chimney, essential for discussing home life and winter in German-speaking countries.
It is often associated with 'Gemütlichkeit' (coziness) and is a central feature in many traditional and luxury German homes.
Grammatically, it is 'der Kamin', plural 'die Kamine', and commonly used with prepositions like 'am' or 'vor dem'.
While 'Schornstein' specifically means the chimney on the roof, 'Kamin' can refer to both the hearth and the flue.

The German word der Kamin is a multifaceted noun that primarily translates to 'fireplace' or 'chimney' in English. It is a central concept in German culture, often associated with the untranslatable feeling of Gemütlichkeit—that specific sense of warmth, coziness, and belonging. While in English we often distinguish strictly between the 'fireplace' (where the fire burns) and the 'chimney' (the structure leading to the roof), German frequently uses Kamin for both, though technical terms like Schornstein exist for the exterior structure.

Domestic Warmth: In a residential context, it refers to the hearth where wood is burned for heat and ambiance. It is the focal point of a living room during the long, dark German winters.
Architectural Feature: It denotes the entire venting system of a building, including the flue and the part visible on the roof that carries smoke away.
Metaphorical Use: It is used in expressions regarding money or effort being 'lost up the chimney' (e.g., in den Kamin schreiben), signifying something that has vanished without a trace.

Nach der Wanderung im Schnee wärmten wir uns am Kamin auf.

Historically, the Kamin was the heart of the home, not just for heat but for cooking. In modern Germany, while central heating is standard, having a Kaminofen (a wood-burning stove) or an open fireplace is considered a luxury and a highly desirable feature in real estate. The word evokes images of crackling wood, the smell of pine, and family gatherings. It is also deeply embedded in folklore; for instance, the tradition of the Weihnachtsmann (Santa Claus) entering through the Kamin is well-known, even if the German Christkind tradition differs slightly.

Der Rauch steigt aus dem Kamin des alten Hauses auf.

You will encounter this word in literature, real estate listings, and home improvement stores. It's a B1 level word because it moves beyond basic survival vocabulary into describing the home environment and atmosphere. Understanding 'der Kamin' is essential for participating in conversations about winter activities, home decor, and even environmental regulations (as wood-burning is strictly regulated in Germany via the Bundes-Immissionsschutzverordnung).

Ein Abend vor dem Kamin ist die beste Medizin gegen den Winterblues.

Kaminfeger: The chimney sweep, also known as Schornsteinfeger, who is a symbol of good luck in Germany.
Kaminholz: Firewood specifically cut and dried for use in a fireplace.

Wir müssen noch mehr Kaminholz für das Wochenende hacken.

Das Prasseln des Feuers im Kamin war sehr beruhigend.

Using der Kamin correctly requires attention to its gender (masculine) and the prepositions that typically accompany it. Because it is a physical object that people interact with, you will often find it in the dative or accusative case depending on whether you are describing a location or a movement.

Preposition: An (at/by): Used to describe being near the fireplace. Example: am Kamin sitzen (sitting by the fireplace). Note that 'am' is a contraction of 'an dem' (dative).
Preposition: Vor (in front of): Used when you are positioned directly in front of the hearth. Example: vor dem Kamin liegen (lying in front of the fireplace).
Preposition: Durch (through): Used when something moves via the chimney. Example: durch den Kamin kommen (to come through the chimney).

Der Weihnachtsmann klettert durch den Kamin ins Haus.

In terms of grammar, 'der Kamin' follows standard masculine declension. In the plural, it becomes die Kamine. In the genitive case, it is des Kamins or des Kamines. When talking about the action of lighting the fire, you would use the verb anzünden (to light) or anmachen (to turn on/light). For example: 'Ich mache den Kamin an.'

Sie stellte die Fotos auf das Sims des Kamins.

When describing the state of the fire, you might say the Kamin is an (on/lit) or aus (out). You can also use verbs like knistern (to crackle) or lodern (to blaze) to add descriptive flair. For instance: 'Im Kamin loderte ein helles Feuer.' This level of detail is perfect for B1 and B2 learners who want to move beyond simple sentences.

Der Hund schläft am liebsten vor dem Kamin.

Compound Words: Kaminfeuer (fireplace fire), Kaminzimmer (room with a fireplace), Kaminsims (mantelpiece).

Das Kaminfeuer spendet angenehme Wärme.

Wir haben gestern den Kamin gereinigt.

You will encounter der Kamin in various real-life scenarios in German-speaking countries. One of the most common places is in real estate advertisements (Immobilienanzeigen). A house or apartment with a Kamin is often marketed as 'exklusiv' or 'gemütlich', and it significantly increases the rental or sale value. You might see phrases like Wohnzimmer mit offenem Kamin (living room with an open fireplace).

In Literature and Media: Classic German literature often uses the Kamin as a setting for deep conversations or 'Kamingespräche'. This term has even entered political and business jargon to describe informal, off-the-record discussions between high-level officials.
In Winter Tourism: If you go skiing in the Alps (Austria, Switzerland, or Bavaria), hotels will boast about their 'Lobby mit Kamin' where guests gather for Après-Ski drinks.

Der Bundeskanzler lud zum informellen Kamingespräch ein.

Another very practical place you'll hear the word is during the annual visit of the Schornsteinfeger (chimney sweep). Even if you don't have an active fireplace, the sweep must check the venting systems (the Kamin) for safety and environmental compliance. In casual conversation, friends might invite you over with the phrase: 'Wir machen es uns heute Abend am Kamin gemütlich.' (We're going to make ourselves cozy by the fireplace tonight).

Die Wohnung hat einen wunderschönen Kamin aus Marmor.

In the context of environmental debates, you will hear about Kaminemissionen (chimney emissions) or discussions about banning wood stoves in cities to reduce fine dust (Feinstaub). So, the word isn't just for cozy evenings; it's also part of modern political and ecological discourse. Finally, around Christmas, children's stories and songs frequently mention the Kamin as the entry point for gift-givers.

Wir saßen bis spät in die Nacht am Kamin und erzählten Geschichten.

Kaminabend: An evening spent by the fireplace, often used to describe a social or networking event.

Der Rauch aus dem Kamin riecht nach Tannenholz.

Hast du den Kamin schon ausgekehrt?

For English speakers, the most common mistake is confusing the gender of der Kamin. Since 'fireplace' has no gender in English, learners often default to 'das' (neuter). Remember: it is masculine. Another frequent error involves the distinction between Kamin and Schornstein. While they are often interchangeable, using Schornstein for an indoor fireplace sounds very strange—it strictly refers to the ventilation pipe or the outdoor structure.

Preposition Confusion: Learners often say 'in dem Kamin' when they mean they are sitting near it. If you say 'Ich sitze im Kamin', it literally means you are sitting inside the fireplace, likely in the ashes! Always use 'am Kamin' or 'vor dem Kamin'.
Kamin vs. Ofen: An 'Ofen' is usually an enclosed stove (like a kitchen oven or a ceramic heating stove), whereas a 'Kamin' typically implies a fireplace where you can see the flames, often built into the wall.

Falsch: Ich sitze im Kamin. Richtig: Ich sitze am Kamin.

Another mistake is with the plural form. Some learners try to use 'Kamine' as a feminine singular or forget the 'e' at the end. It is die Kamine (plural). Also, be careful with the word Kaminfeger. In Northern Germany, you must use Schornsteinfeger, or people might think you are using a regionalism from the South or Switzerland. Using the wrong term isn't a 'fatal' error, but it marks you as a beginner.

Falsch: Das Kamin ist heiß. Richtig: Der Kamin ist heiß.

Lastly, don't confuse Kamin with Kanin (which isn't a word, but sounds like Kaninchen - rabbit). This is a rare mistake but happens in fast speech. Focus on the long 'i' sound (/kaˈmiːn/). If you shorten the 'i', it sounds like you are saying 'Kamin' incorrectly. In writing, ensure you don't capitalize the 'i' or forget the 'n' at the end.

Wir haben drei Kamine in diesem Schloss.

False Friend Alert: The English word 'chimney' usually maps to 'Schornstein' or 'Kamin', but 'fireplace' is almost always 'Kamin'. Don't use 'Feuerplatz' as a direct translation for fireplace; use 'Feuerstelle' or 'Kamin'.

Der Rauch verlässt das Haus durch den Kamin.

Pass auf, der Kamin ist noch sehr heiß!

German has several words related to fire and heating that are often confused with der Kamin. Understanding the nuances between these terms will greatly improve your vocabulary precision. The most significant alternative is der Schornstein.

Der Schornstein: This refers specifically to the chimney—the vertical pipe that conducts smoke out of the building. While 'Kamin' can mean this too, 'Schornstein' is never used for the indoor fireplace where you sit and warm yourself.
Der Ofen: An 'Ofen' is a stove. This could be a Backofen (oven for baking) or a Kachelofen (a traditional tiled stove common in Central Europe). Unlike a Kamin, an Ofen is usually fully enclosed.
Die Feuerstelle: This is a more general term for any place where fire is made, including outdoor fire pits or ancient hearths. It's more functional and less architectural than 'Kamin'.

Im Wohnzimmer steht ein Kamin, aber in der Küche haben wir einen alten Ofen.

In industrial contexts, you might hear the word der Schlot or die Esse. A 'Schlot' is a large industrial chimney, like those on factories or old steamships. 'Esse' is a regional term (common in East Germany) for a chimney, but it also refers to a forge's hearth. If you are looking for a more poetic or archaic term, der Herd (though now meaning kitchen stove) historically referred to the central fireplace of a home.

Die Fabrik hat einen riesigen Schlot.

When discussing the components of a fireplace, you might use der Kaminsims (mantelpiece), das Kaminbesteck (fireplace tools), or die Kaminverkleidung (fireplace surround). Each of these terms builds on 'Kamin'. For a modern, non-wood alternative, you'd specify an Elektrokamin or Gaskamin. Choosing the right word shows you understand the specific type of heating and the atmosphere it creates.

Wir haben uns für einen modernen Gaskamin entschieden.

Regionalisms: In Switzerland, 'Cheminée' (from French) is the standard word for an indoor fireplace, while 'Kamin' is used for the chimney.

In der Schweiz sagt man oft Cheminée statt Kamin.

Der Schornstein muss dringend repariert werden.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word is a cognate with the English 'chimney' and the French 'cheminée'. In Middle High German, it was 'kamîn'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /kaˈmiːn/

US /kɑˈmin/

The stress is on the second syllable: ka-MIN.

Rime avec

Benzin Termin Vitamin Rubin Delfin Magazin Berlin Ruine (near rhyme)

Erreurs fréquentes

Stressing the first syllable (KA-min).
Pronouncing the 'i' as a short 'i' (like 'tin').
Confusing the 'n' with 'm' at the end.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize due to English/French cognates.

Écriture 3/5

Masculine gender and plural 'e' need to be memorized.

Expression orale 3/5

Stress on the second syllable is important for clarity.

Écoute 2/5

Clear pronunciation, usually easy to distinguish.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

das Haus das Feuer warm sitzen der Rauch

Apprends ensuite

der Schornstein gemütlich heizen das Holz die Asche

Avancé

die Emissionen der Kamineffekt die Rußpartikel die Brennkammer der Abzug

Grammaire à connaître

Masculine Noun Declension

Der Kamin (Nom), des Kamins (Gen), dem Kamin (Dat), den Kamin (Acc).

Two-way Prepositions (Wechselpräpositionen)

Ich setze mich vor den Kamin (Acc - movement). Ich sitze vor dem Kamin (Dat - position).

Compound Nouns (Fugen-s)

Note: Kamin usually doesn't take a Fugen-s (e.g., Kaminfeuer, not Kaminsfeuer).

Contractions with Articles

an + dem = am Kamin.

Plural Formation with -e

Many masculine nouns like Kamin form the plural by adding -e (die Kamine).

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Exemples par niveau

Der Kamin ist im Wohnzimmer.

The fireplace is in the living room.

'Der' is the masculine article.

Hast du einen Kamin?

Do you have a fireplace?

'Einen' is the masculine accusative article.

Das Feuer im Kamin ist heiß.

The fire in the fireplace is hot.

'Im' is a contraction of 'in dem' (dative).

Wir sehen den Kamin.

We see the fireplace.

'Den' is the masculine accusative article.

Der Kamin ist aus Stein.

The fireplace is made of stone.

Simple subject-predicate structure.

Der Weihnachtsmann kommt durch den Kamin.

Santa Claus comes through the chimney.

'Durch' always takes the accusative case.

Hier ist der Kamin.

Here is the fireplace.

Nominative case after 'ist'.

Ich mag meinen Kamin.

I like my fireplace.

'Meinen' is the possessive pronoun in the accusative.

Wir sitzen jeden Abend am Kamin.

We sit by the fireplace every evening.

'Am' indicates proximity in the dative case.

Kannst du den Kamin bitte anmachen?

Can you please light the fireplace?

'Anmachen' is a separable verb.

Draußen ist es kalt, aber der Kamin wärmt uns.

It's cold outside, but the fireplace warms us.

Contrast using 'aber'.

Der Schornsteinfeger reinigt heute den Kamin.

The chimney sweep is cleaning the chimney today.

'Reinigen' takes an accusative object.

Es liegt viel Kaminholz neben dem Kamin.

There is a lot of firewood next to the fireplace.

'Neben' with dative for location.

Der Rauch aus dem Kamin ist weiß.

The smoke from the chimney is white.

'Aus' always takes the dative case.

In den Ferien hatten wir eine Hütte mit Kamin.

On vacation, we had a cabin with a fireplace.

'Mit' takes the dative case.

Mein Hund schläft gern vor dem Kamin.

My dog likes to sleep in front of the fireplace.

'Vor' with dative for location.

Das Knistern des Kamins ist sehr beruhigend.

The crackling of the fireplace is very soothing.

Genitive case: 'des Kamins'.

Ein offener Kamin braucht viel Pflege.

An open fireplace needs a lot of care.

Adjective ending '-er' for masculine nominative.

Wegen des Rauchs mussten wir den Kamin löschen.

Because of the smoke, we had to put out the fire.

'Wegen' with genitive case.

Der Kamin ist ein Symbol für Gemütlichkeit.

The fireplace is a symbol of coziness.

'Für' takes the accusative case.

Wir haben den alten Kamin durch einen modernen Ofen ersetzt.

We replaced the old fireplace with a modern stove.

'Ersetzen durch' takes the accusative.

Das Haus hat zwei Kamine auf dem Dach.

The house has two chimneys on the roof.

Plural form: 'Kamine'.

Abends lesen wir oft Bücher am Kamin.

In the evenings, we often read books by the fireplace.

Adverb 'abends' for recurring time.

Pass auf, dass keine Funken aus dem Kamin fliegen.

Be careful that no sparks fly out of the fireplace.

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Die Abgase des Kamins werden regelmäßig gemessen.

The chimney's exhaust gases are measured regularly.

Passive voice 'werden gemessen'.

Ein Kaminofen ist effizienter als ein offener Kamin.

A wood stove is more efficient than an open fireplace.

Comparative 'effizienter als'.

Das Kamingespräch fand in einer entspannten Atmosphäre statt.

The fireside chat took place in a relaxed atmosphere.

Compound noun 'Kamingespräch'.

Man kann die Kosten für die Renovierung in den Kamin schreiben.

You can write off the renovation costs as a total loss.

Idiom: 'etwas in den Kamin schreiben'.

Der Kamin sorgt für eine gleichmäßige Wärmeverteilung.

The fireplace ensures an even distribution of heat.

'Sorgen für' with accusative.

Die Kaminhaube schützt vor Regen und Fallwinden.

The chimney cap protects against rain and downdrafts.

'Schützen vor' with dative.

In vielen Städten ist der Betrieb von Kaminen eingeschränkt.

In many cities, the operation of fireplaces is restricted.

Noun-verb combination 'der Betrieb von'.

Der Schornstein nutzt den Kamineffekt, um den Rauch abzuführen.

The chimney uses the stack effect to vent the smoke.

Technical term 'Kamineffekt'.

Die Rußablagerungen im Kamin stellen ein Brandrisiko dar.

The soot deposits in the chimney represent a fire risk.

'Darstellen' as a formal alternative to 'sein'.

Das flackernde Licht des Kamins warf lange Schatten an die Wand.

The flickering light of the fireplace cast long shadows on the wall.

Literary description.

Trotz der Zentralheizung bleibt der Kamin das Herzstück des Hauses.

Despite central heating, the fireplace remains the centerpiece of the house.

'Trotz' with genitive case.

Die Kaminfeger-Innung wacht über die Einhaltung der Brandschutzregeln.

The chimney sweeps' guild monitors compliance with fire safety rules.

Complex compound noun.

Ein schlecht ziehender Kamin kann zu einer Kohlenmonoxidvergiftung führen.

A poorly drafting chimney can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Participial adjective 'schlecht ziehender'.

Die Romantik des Kamins steht oft im Widerspruch zu ökologischen Bedenken.

The romance of the fireplace is often in conflict with ecological concerns.

Abstract expression 'im Widerspruch stehen zu'.

Der Architekt integrierte den Kamin nahtlos in die Sichtbetonwand.

The architect integrated the fireplace seamlessly into the exposed concrete wall.

Advanced vocabulary 'integrierte nahtlos'.

Durch den Kamin entweicht leider auch viel wertvolle Wärme.

Unfortunately, a lot of valuable heat also escapes through the chimney.

Adverbial placement for emphasis.

Die Kaminführung in diesem historischen Gebäude ist ein Meisterwerk der Ingenieurskunst.

The flue routing in this historic building is a masterpiece of engineering.

Highly specialized vocabulary.

In seinem Essay reflektiert er über den Kamin als Ort der familiären Intimität.

In his essay, he reflects on the fireplace as a place of familial intimacy.

'Reflektieren über' with accusative.

Die Feinstaubbelastung durch private Kamine ist Gegenstand hitziger Debatten.

Fine dust pollution from private fireplaces is the subject of heated debates.

Formal phrase 'ist Gegenstand von'.

Man muss den Kaminzug präzise berechnen, um Rauchaustritt zu vermeiden.

One must precisely calculate the chimney draft to prevent smoke leakage.

Infinitive construction with 'um...zu'.

Der Kamin fungiert hier als vertikale Achse des architektonischen Entwurfs.

The chimney functions here as the vertical axis of the architectural design.

'Fungieren als' (to function as).

Die behagliche Wärme des Kamins kontrastiert scharf mit der eisigen Böe vor dem Fenster.

The cozy warmth of the fireplace contrasts sharply with the icy gust outside the window.

High-level descriptive verbs.

Die gesetzlichen Anforderungen an die Kaminreinigung wurden unlängst verschärft.

The legal requirements for chimney cleaning were recently tightened.

Passive voice with 'unlängst' (recently).

Ein prasselndes Kaminfeuer evoziert Bilder von Geborgenheit und Tradition.

A crackling fireplace fire evokes images of security and tradition.

Sophisticated verb 'evozieren'.

Collocations courantes

einen Kamin anmachen

am Kamin sitzen

offener Kamin

Kaminholz hacken

den Kamin reinigen

vor dem Kamin liegen

das Knistern des Kamins

Kaminfeger rufen

elektrischer Kamin

Kaminofen einbauen

Phrases Courantes

Es sich am Kamin gemütlich machen

— To make oneself comfortable by the fireplace. Used to describe a relaxing evening.

Lass es uns am Kamin gemütlich machen.

Etwas in den Kamin schreiben

— To write something off as a loss. Used for money or efforts that are gone.

Das Geld kannst du in den Kamin schreiben.

Ein Kaminfeuer anzünden

— To light a fire in the fireplace. Standard way to describe starting the fire.

Ich werde jetzt das Kaminfeuer anzünden.

Durch den Kamin gehen

— To go through the chimney. Often used in stories about Santa or sweeps.

Der Rauch geht durch den Kamin nach draußen.

Ein Haus mit Kamin

— A house with a fireplace. A common phrase in real estate.

Sie suchen ein Haus mit Kamin.

Kamin und Wein

— Fireplace and wine. A classic combination for a romantic or quiet evening.

Kamin und Wein – das ist der perfekte Abend.

Rauch im Kamin

— Smoke in the chimney. Can refer to the fire being lit or a problem with the flue.

Es ist viel Rauch im Kamin.

Den Kamin fegen

— To sweep the chimney. The job of the Schornsteinfeger.

Der Schornsteinfeger muss den Kamin fegen.

Wärme vom Kamin

— Warmth from the fireplace. Describing the physical feeling of the heat.

Die Wärme vom Kamin ist sehr angenehm.

Ein knisternder Kamin

— A crackling fireplace. Using an adjective to describe the sound.

Ein knisternder Kamin gehört zum Winter dazu.

Souvent confondu avec

der Kamin vs der Schornstein

Often used as a synonym, but 'Schornstein' is specifically the roof structure.

der Kamin vs das Kaninchen

Sounds slightly similar but means rabbit. Don't mix them up!

der Kamin vs der Ofen

An 'Ofen' is usually enclosed, like a stove, whereas a 'Kamin' is often open.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Etwas in den Kamin schreiben"

— To consider something (usually money) as lost or wasted. Literally 'to write it into the chimney'.

Die Investition war ein Fehler, das Geld können wir in den Kamin schreiben.

informal

"Wie ein Schornstein rauchen"

— To smoke very heavily (referring to a person who smokes cigarettes). Note: 'Schornstein' is more common here, but 'Kamin' is sometimes used.

Er raucht wie ein Schornstein.

informal

"Kamingespräch"

— An informal, private discussion, often between high-ranking people.

Die CEOs trafen sich zu einem vertraulichen Kamingespräch.

formal/journalistic

"Kamineffekt"

— Used metaphorically to describe a situation where something (like a trend or a problem) rapidly accelerates upwards.

Die Nachricht verbreitete sich durch einen Kamineffekt im ganzen Land.

neutral/scientific

"Auf dem Kamin sitzen"

— A very rare, regional idiom meaning to be in a prominent or observant position (not widely used).

Er sitzt auf dem Kamin und beobachtet alles.

archaic

"Den Kamin fegen müssen"

— Sometimes used as a metaphor for needing to clear one's head or resolve a messy situation.

Ich muss bei mir mal wieder den Kamin fegen.

informal/metaphorical

"Wie Ruß im Kamin"

— Something that sticks or is hard to get rid of.

Das Vorurteil sitzt fest wie Ruß im Kamin.

literary

"Ein Feuer im Kamin entfachen"

— Can be used metaphorically to spark interest or passion.

Seine Rede entfachte ein Feuer im Kamin der Begeisterung.

literary

"Den Kamin rauchen lassen"

— To keep the household going; to work hard to provide.

Er arbeitet viel, um den Kamin rauchen zu lassen.

informal

"In den Kamin schauen"

— To stare into the fire; to be lost in thought.

Sie schaute stundenlang in den Kamin.

neutral

Facile à confondre

der Kamin vs Kamin

Dual meaning

Can mean fireplace (inside) or chimney (outside).

Der Kamin ist im Wohnzimmer (fireplace). Der Rauch kommt aus dem Kamin (chimney).

der Kamin vs Schornstein

Overlap

Strictly the venting structure, never the indoor seating area.

Der Schornsteinfeger klettert auf das Dach.

der Kamin vs Esse

Regionalism

Used mostly in East Germany or for a blacksmith's forge.

Die Esse raucht.

der Kamin vs Schlot

Scale

Refers to large, industrial chimneys (factories, ships).

Ein Industrieschlot.

der Kamin vs Herd

History

Modern meaning is kitchen stove; historical meaning is central hearth.

Der Elektroherd.

Structures de phrases

Das ist ein [Adjektiv] Kamin.

Das ist ein schöner Kamin.

Ich sitze am Kamin und [Verb].

Ich sitze am Kamin und lese.

Obwohl es draußen kalt ist, ist es am Kamin [Adjektiv].

Obwohl es draußen kalt ist, ist es am Kamin warm.

Ich mag das [Substantiv] des Kamins.

Ich mag das Knistern des Kamins.

Der Kamin dient dazu, [Nebensatz].

Der Kamin dient dazu, das Zimmer zu heizen.

Man sollte den Kamin [Partizip II] haben.

Man sollte den Kamin gereinigt haben.

In Anbetracht der [Substantiv] ist der Kamin [Adjektiv].

In Anbetracht der Feinstaubwerte ist der Kamin problematisch.

Die symbolische Kraft des Kamins äußert sich in [Substantiv].

Die symbolische Kraft des Kamins äußert sich in der Literatur.

Famille de mots

Noms

das Kaminfeuer

das Kaminholz

das Kaminzimmer

der Kaminsims

die Kaminhaube

das Kaminbesteck

der Kaminofen

der Kaminfeger

Verbes

verkaminen (rare/technical)

auskaminen (regional)

Adjectifs

kaminrot (crimson/fireplace red)

Apparenté

das Feuer

der Rauch

der Schornstein

die Asche

der Ruß

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in household, real estate, and winter-related contexts.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'das Kamin' → der Kamin
Kamin is a masculine noun. Using the wrong gender is a very common beginner mistake.
Ich sitze im Kamin. → Ich sitze am Kamin.
'Im' means 'inside'. Unless you are Santa or a sweep, you are sitting 'am' (by) or 'vor' (in front of) it.
Der Schornstein ist im Wohnzimmer. → Der Kamin ist im Wohnzimmer.
'Schornstein' is only the chimney on the roof. The indoor part is the 'Kamin'.
Kaminholz machen → Kaminholz hacken
While 'machen' is understood, 'hacken' (to chop) is the precise verb for preparing wood.
Die Kaminen → Die Kamine
The plural is 'Kamine'. 'Kaminen' is only used in the dative plural ('mit den Kaminen').

Astuces

Gender Memory

Imagine a 'Man' (Masculine) building a fireplace. This helps you remember it's 'der Kamin'.

Swiss Variation

If you are in Switzerland, use 'Cheminée'. It's much more common than 'Kamin' for the indoor fireplace.

Good Luck

Mentioning a 'Schornsteinfeger' (chimney sweep) is a great way to start a cultural conversation in Germany.

Don't sit 'in' the Kamin

Always use 'am Kamin' or 'vor dem Kamin'. If you say 'im Kamin', you are literally inside the soot!

Long I

Make sure the 'i' in Kamin is long like in 'machine'. Shortening it makes it sound wrong.

Kaminanschluss

If you see 'Kaminanschluss' in an ad, it means there is a hole for a stove, but the stove itself isn't there.

Wasted Money

Use 'in den Kamin schreiben' when talking about a business failure to sound like a pro.

Feinstaub

When discussing Kamine, words like 'Feinstaub' (fine dust) and 'Umwelt' (environment) often come up.

Kehren vs. Putzen

Use 'fegen' or 'kehren' for the chimney, but 'putzen' for the glass door of a modern fireplace.

Sound Words

Learn 'knistern' (crackle) to describe the lovely sound of a Kamin.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Cabin' (sounds like Kamin) in the woods with a big fireplace. Or imagine 'Coming in' (Kam-in) from the cold to sit by the fire.

Association visuelle

Picture a tall brick chimney on a snowy roof with white smoke rising, or a warm orange glow from a hearth in a dark room.

Word Web

Feuer Wärme Holz Rauch Dach Winter Gemütlichkeit Schornsteinfeger

Défi

Try to describe your favorite winter evening using the word 'Kamin' and three related words like 'Holz', 'warm', and 'sitzen'.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Latin 'caminus', which in turn comes from the Greek 'kaminos' (κάμινος), meaning 'furnace', 'oven', or 'kiln'.

Sens originel : A place for fire, specifically an oven or a furnace used for heating or industrial purposes.

Indo-European (via Latin and Greek).

Contexte culturel

Be aware that wood-burning is a sensitive ecological topic in modern Germany due to air pollution regulations.

Unlike in the US or UK where 'chimney' and 'fireplace' are distinct, German 'Kamin' often covers both, though 'Schornstein' is a more precise word for the roof part.

The song 'Leise rieselt der Schnee' mentions a cozy room. The tradition of 'Kamingespräche' by Franklin D. Roosevelt is translated as such in German. Grimm's Fairy Tales often feature hearths/fireplaces.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Winter and Christmas

Weihnachten am Kamin
Der Weihnachtsmann im Kamin
Kaminfeuer genießen
Kekse am Kamin essen

Real Estate and Housing

Wohnung mit Kaminanschluss
Einen Kamin nachrüsten
Moderner Design-Kamin
Kamin im Mietvertrag

Maintenance and Safety

Kamin brand
Kamin fegen
Abnahme durch den Schornsteinfeger
Kaminrohr isolieren

Nature and Camping

Eine offene Feuerstelle
Holz für den Kamin sammeln
Draußen-Kamin
Lagerfeuer-Atmosphäre

Business and Politics

Informelles Kamingespräch
Vertrauliche Runde am Kamin
In den Kamin schreiben
Kamineffekt bei Preisen

Amorces de conversation

"Hast du in deiner Wohnung oder deinem Haus einen Kamin?"

"Findest du Kaminfeuer romantisch oder eher unpraktisch?"

"Was machst du am liebsten an einem kalten Winterabend am Kamin?"

"Glaubst du, dass Kamine wegen der Umweltverschmutzung verboten werden sollten?"

"Hast du schon mal echtes Kaminholz selbst gehackt?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe deinen perfekten Abend vor einem prasselnden Kamin. Wer ist dabei? Was trinkst du?

Stell dir vor, du bist ein Schornsteinfeger. Was siehst du, wenn du über die Dächer der Stadt läufst?

Reflektiere über die Bedeutung von 'Gemütlichkeit' in der deutschen Kultur und die Rolle des Kamins.

Schreibe eine kurze Geschichte über ein Geheimnis, das hinter einem alten Kamin in einem Schloss versteckt ist.

Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile von Holzheizungen im Vergleich zu modernen Wärmepumpen.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is masculine: 'der Kamin'. For example, 'Der Kamin ist groß.' or 'Ich sehe den Kamin.' (accusative).

While 'Kamin' can refer to both the fireplace and the chimney, 'Schornstein' only refers to the chimney structure on the roof. You wouldn't say you sit 'am Schornstein' inside your house.

You can say 'den Kamin anmachen' or 'das Kaminfeuer anzünden'. Both are very common.

It's an informal, off-the-record discussion, usually between high-level people like politicians or CEOs, named after FDR's fireside chats.

Usually, 'Schlot' is used for industrial chimneys, although 'Kamin' is technically possible.

The plural is 'die Kamine'. For example: 'Das Schloss hat viele Kamine.'

Historically, a clean chimney prevented house fires and allowed for cooking, making the 'Schornsteinfeger' a savior of the home.

Yes, you would call it an 'Elektrokamin'. It looks like a fireplace but uses electricity.

Use 'am' (an dem) for being near it: 'am Kamin sitzen'. Use 'vor' for being in front of it: 'vor dem Kamin liegen'.

No, there are strict environmental laws (BImSchV) that regulate which Kamine can be used to reduce fine dust pollution.

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