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A2 noun #4,000 most common 11 min read

der Lack

Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips der Lack in 30 Seconds

Explanation der Lack in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know 'der Lack' in very simple contexts. The most common one is 'Nagellack' (nail polish). You might learn that 'Lack' is a thing you can buy at a store. You should focus on the fact that it is a masculine noun ('der'). You might see it on signs in a 'Baumarkt' (DIY store) or in a drugstore. Simple sentences like 'Der Lack ist rot' (The varnish/polish is red) or 'Ich kaufe Lack' are enough. At this stage, don't worry about the chemical types or the metaphors. Just remember it's a 'shiny paint' for cars, nails, or wood. You might also hear it when someone says 'Vorsicht, frisch lackiert!' (Caution, freshly painted/varnished!), which is a common sign in public spaces.

At the A2 level, you start to use 'der Lack' in more practical, everyday sentences. You should be able to talk about your car or your furniture. For example, 'Mein Auto hat einen Kratzer im Lack' (My car has a scratch in the paint). You should also be familiar with the verb 'lackieren' (to varnish/lacquer). You might need this word when shopping for home improvement projects. You should understand that 'Lack' is different from 'Farbe' (wall paint). At A2, you are expected to handle the accusative case correctly: 'Ich brauche einen neuen Lack für den Tisch'. You might also encounter compound nouns like 'Klarlack' (clear varnish) or 'Farblack' (colored varnish).

By B1, you should understand the metaphorical use of 'der Lack'. The phrase 'Der Lack ist ab' is a classic idiom you should know; it means something has lost its appeal or is getting old. You should also be able to describe processes. For instance, 'Bevor man den Lack aufträgt, muss man das Holz schleifen' (Before applying the varnish, you have to sand the wood). You should be comfortable with 'mit' + dative: 'Wir haben den Schrank mit einem speziellen Lack gestrichen'. You start to see 'Lack' in more professional or hobby-related contexts, like model building or car maintenance. You should also know the word 'Lackierer' for the person who does the job professionally.

At the B2 level, you should be able to discuss the qualities of different 'Lacke'. Is it 'wasserlöslich' (water-soluble) or 'lösungsmittelhaltig' (containing solvents)? You might read articles about environmental protection where 'umweltfreundliche Lacke' are discussed. You should understand more complex idioms and nuances. For example, 'jemandem eine Überdosis Lack verpassen' (slang, very informal/aggressive). You can distinguish between 'Lack', 'Lasur', and 'Firnis' and explain why you would choose one over the other. Your vocabulary should include technical terms like 'Grundierung' (primer) which is often used before the 'Lack'.

At the C1 level, 'der Lack' appears in sophisticated literature and technical reports. You might analyze the use of 'Lack' as a metaphor for superficiality in a social critique. You should be able to discuss the chemical properties of polymers in lacquers if you are in a technical field. You understand the historical development of 'Lackkunst' (lacquer art) in Asia and its influence on European furniture (Chinoiserie). You can use the word in formal aesthetic discussions, such as the 'Tiefenwirkung des Lacks' (the depth effect of the varnish) on a grand piano. Your mastery of the word includes all its derivative forms and its most obscure idiomatic uses.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'der Lack'. You can appreciate puns and wordplay involving the word in cabaret or high-level journalism. You might use it in a sentence like 'Die politische Entscheidung war nur ein dünner Lack, der die tieferen Spannungen verdecken sollte' (The political decision was just a thin varnish intended to hide deeper tensions). You are familiar with the chemistry, the history, the art, and the colloquialisms perfectly. You can navigate a professional 'Lackiererei' or a high-end art restoration studio using the most precise terminology available, such as 'Polyurethan-Zweikomponentenlack'.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

der Lack in 30 Seconds

Der Lack is a masculine noun (der) meaning varnish, lacquer, or polish.
Commonly used for cars (Autolack), nails (Nagellack), and furniture (Holzlack).
The idiom 'Der Lack ist ab' means something has lost its shine or prime.
Differentiate it from 'Farbe' (wall paint) and 'Lasur' (transparent wood stain).

The German noun der Lack primarily refers to a liquid substance that, when applied to a surface, dries into a hard, protective, and often shiny coating. In English, this is most commonly translated as varnish, lacquer, or enamel. However, in German, the term is broader and encompasses everything from the protective finish on a high-end sports car to the decorative polish used on fingernails. Understanding 'der Lack' requires looking at both its physical properties and its metaphorical weight in German culture. Historically, the word entered German from the Italian 'lacca', tracing back to the Sanskrit 'laksha', referring to the resinous secretion of the lac insect. This historical depth reflects the long-standing human endeavor to preserve and beautify objects. In modern Germany, a nation famous for its automotive engineering and woodworking, 'der Lack' is a word you will encounter daily. Whether you are at a 'Baumarkt' (DIY store) looking for 'Holzlack' (wood varnish) or at a 'Nagelstudio' choosing a 'Nagellack' (nail polish), the word is ubiquitous.

Industrial Context: In the automotive industry, 'der Lack' refers to the sophisticated multi-layer paint system that protects a vehicle's metal body from corrosion and UV damage. Germans take great pride in the 'Lackierung' (paint job) of their cars.

Der neue Sportwagen glänzt in der Sonne, weil der Lack perfekt poliert wurde.

Beyond the physical, 'der Lack' carries a heavy metaphorical burden. Germans use the phrase 'Der Lack ist ab' (The varnish is off) to describe something or someone that has lost its initial shine, beauty, or vigor. It is a poetic way of saying that the 'honeymoon period' is over or that an object is showing its age. This usage highlights the German cultural emphasis on appearances and the inevitable decay of perfection. Furthermore, 'der Lack' is often associated with protection. Just as a layer of lacquer protects a wooden table from water stains, a person might put on a 'metaphorical lacquer' to protect themselves in social situations. In professional settings, chemists and engineers might discuss 'Lacke' in terms of their chemical composition, such as 'Acryllack' or 'Nitrolack'. For a learner, the most important takeaway is that 'Lack' is not just 'paint' (which is usually 'die Farbe'), but specifically the finish that provides shine and protection. If you paint a wall, you use 'Farbe'; if you finish a violin or a car door, you use 'Lack'.

Artistic Use: Artists use 'Firnis' (a type of Lack) to seal oil paintings. This ensures the colors remain vibrant for centuries and protects the canvas from dust.

Pass auf! Der Lack auf der Bank ist noch feucht.

Using der Lack correctly in a sentence involves understanding its role as a masculine noun and its relationship with specific verbs. The most common verb associated with it is lackieren (to varnish/lacquer). When you want to say you are applying varnish, you might say 'Ich lackiere den Tisch'. Here, 'Lack' is implied in the verb. However, if you are discussing the substance itself, you use 'der Lack' as the subject or object. For example, 'Der Lack trocknet schnell' (The varnish dries quickly). Note the nominative case. If you are buying it, you use the accusative: 'Ich kaufe einen wetterfesten Lack'. The adjective 'wetterfest' (weatherproof) takes the '-en' ending because 'Lack' is masculine accusative.

Prepositional Usage: Commonly used with 'mit' (with) or 'auf' (on). 'Der Schrank ist mit schwarzem Lack überzogen' (The cabinet is covered with black lacquer). 'Kratzer auf dem Lack' (Scratches on the paintwork).

Können Sie mir helfen, den richtigen Lack für dieses Holz auszuwählen?

In more advanced sentence structures, you will find 'Lack' in compound nouns. German loves compounding, and 'Lack' is a very productive component. 'Klarlack' (clear varnish), 'Sprühlack' (spray paint/lacquer), and 'Nagellackentferner' (nail polish remover) are essential words for daily life. When using these, the gender of the entire word is determined by the last element. Since 'Lack' is usually the last element (except in 'Lackentferner' where 'Entferner' is masculine anyway), these compounds remain masculine. Another important aspect is the passive voice, often used in technical descriptions: 'Zuerst wird die Oberfläche gereinigt, dann wird der Lack in zwei Schichten aufgetragen.' (First the surface is cleaned, then the varnish is applied in two layers). This structure is common in manuals and DIY instructions.

Comparison: 'Dieser Lack ist glänzender als der andere' (This varnish is shinier than the other). Use the comparative form of adjectives to describe the quality of the finish.

Nach dem Unfall war der Lack meines Autos völlig zerkratzt.

When discussing health and safety, you might hear 'lösungsmittelfreier Lack' (solvent-free varnish), which is an important term for environmentally conscious consumers. In summary, 'der Lack' is versatile; it functions as a simple subject, a specific object in DIY tasks, and a key component in the massive German vocabulary of compound nouns.

To truly master der Lack, you need to know the environments where it naturally occurs. The most common place is the **Baumarkt** (DIY store). Germany has a huge DIY culture (think of stores like OBI, Bauhaus, or Hornbach). Walking through the aisles, you will see hundreds of tins labeled with various types of 'Lack'. You'll hear customers asking employees: 'Welcher Lack eignet sich für den Außenbereich?' (Which varnish is suitable for outdoor use?).

The Automotive World: In a 'Kfz-Werkstatt' (car repair shop) or 'Lackiererei' (paint shop), 'der Lack' is the star of the conversation. Mechanics will talk about 'Lackschäden' (paint damage) or 'Beilackieren' (spot-repairing paint).

Der Gutachter prüft, ob der Lack noch original ist oder ob das Auto nachlackiert wurde.

Another major setting is the world of beauty and fashion. 'Nagellack' is a massive industry. In a 'Drogeriemarkt' (drugstore like dm or Rossmann), you'll hear teenagers and adults alike discussing the latest colors of 'Nagellack'. Phrases like 'Der Lack splittert ab' (The polish is chipping) are common complaints. You will also hear 'der Lack' in the context of furniture restoration. Germany has a rich tradition of craftsmanship. In a carpentry workshop ('Tischlerei'), the 'Oberflächenbehandlung' (surface treatment) often involves several layers of 'Lack'. You might hear a master carpenter tell an apprentice: 'Trage den Lack gleichmäßig auf, sonst gibt es Nasen' (Apply the varnish evenly, otherwise there will be drips/runs).

Metaphorical Settings: In political talk shows or newspaper editorials, you might hear 'Der Lack ist ab' regarding a politician whose popularity is fading. It suggests that the shiny facade has worn away to reveal a less impressive reality.

Bei diesem alten Gebäude ist der Lack schon lange ab; es muss dringend renoviert werden.

In sports journalism, particularly football (soccer), if a team that was once dominant starts losing, a commentator might say: 'Auch bei den Bayern ist der Lack allmählich ab.' This implies the 'aura of invincibility' (the shine) is disappearing. Understanding these varied contexts—from the literal car paint to the metaphorical political reputation—will make you sound much more like a native speaker.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make with der Lack is confusing it with the general word for paint, which is **die Farbe**. While all 'Lacke' are a type of coating, not all 'Farben' are 'Lacke'. If you are painting a wall in your living room, you are using 'Wandfarbe', never 'Wandlack'. Using 'Lack' for wall paint will sound very strange to a German ear, as it implies a hard, shiny, waterproof shell that would make a room feel like a laboratory.

Gender Confusion: Many learners mistakenly treat 'Lack' as feminine or neuter. Remember: it is 'DER Lack'. Saying 'die Lack' or 'das Lack' will lead to incorrect adjective endings and pronoun usage later in the sentence.

Falsch: Ich brauche eine neue Lack. Richtig: Ich brauche einen neuen Lack.

Another common mistake is the pronunciation of the vowel. The 'a' in 'Lack' is a short, open sound, similar to the 'a' in the English word 'luck' but more open, or like the 'a' in 'cat' but without the 'e' tint. Some English speakers lengthen it to 'Laak', which sounds like the word for a lake in some German dialects or simply wrong. In technical writing, learners often forget that 'lackieren' is the verb. They might try to say 'ich mache Lack auf den Tisch' (I put varnish on the table). While understandable, 'ich lackiere den Tisch' is much more natural. Furthermore, when using the idiom 'Der Lack ist ab', learners sometimes try to translate 'the paint is peeling' literally as 'die Farbe schält sich'. While that works for a wall, for a car or a person's reputation, the idiom 'der Lack ist ab' is far more idiomatic and powerful.

False Friends: Be careful with 'Lacquer' vs 'Lacker'. In English, 'lacquer' is the substance. In German, 'Lacker' (short for Lackierer) is sometimes used colloquially for the person who does the painting. Don't mix up the substance and the person!

Achtung: Sag nicht 'Der Lack ist tot'. Wenn etwas alt aussieht, sag: 'Der Lack ist ab'.

Finally, pay attention to the plural. It is 'die Lacke'. Some learners try to use 'Lacken' as a plural nominative, which is incorrect (it's the dative plural form). Keeping these distinctions in mind will prevent the most jarring errors.

While der Lack is the standard term for varnish or lacquer, there are several related words that offer more precision depending on the context. Understanding these will elevate your German from A2 to B1 and beyond. First, there is **die Lasur**. A 'Lasur' is a semi-transparent coating, often used for wood, that allows the grain to show through. Unlike 'Lack', which is usually opaque and forms a thick film, 'Lasur' penetrates the surface. If you want a natural look for your garden fence, you ask for 'Holzlasur', not 'Holzlack'.

Lack vs. Lasur: 'Lack' = opaque, protective, shiny layer. 'Lasur' = transparent, soaking, natural-look coating.

Für die antike Kommode nehmen wir keinen Lack, sondern eine feine Lasur.

Then we have **der Firnis**. This is a specific type of varnish used primarily in fine arts to protect oil paintings. It's a more 'elevated' or 'academic' word. If you're in an art gallery, you'll hear about 'Firnis', not 'Lack'. Another alternative is **die Politur**. While 'Lack' is the substance itself, 'Politur' (polish) is often the substance used to make the 'Lack' shine or the process of shining it. You apply 'Politur' to 'den Lack' of your car to remove small scratches. In industrial contexts, you might encounter **die Beschichtung** (coating). This is a very broad, technical term. 'Der Lack' is a type of 'Beschichtung'. If you're reading a technical manual for a machine, it might refer to the 'Schutzbeschichtung' (protective coating).

Emaille: 'Emaille' (enamel) is a glass-like coating fused to metal. It's much harder and more durable than 'Lack'. Used for old bathtubs or high-quality pots.

Ist das Gehäuse aus Lack oder ist es emailliert?

Finally, consider the word **die Farbe** again. While we said not to confuse them, they are 'sister' words. In many casual contexts, people might say 'Die Farbe am Auto ist ab' instead of 'Der Lack ist ab', though the latter is more precise. Knowing when to use 'Lack' for the hard finish and 'Farbe' for the pigment/color is key to sounding natural. By mastering these distinctions, you show that you understand the material world with the precision that the German language encourages.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Die chemische Zusammensetzung des Lacks entspricht den neuesten Umweltstandards."

Neutral

"Ich muss neuen Lack für den Gartenzaun kaufen."

Informal

"Dein Nagellack sieht echt cool aus!"

Child friendly

"Mal nicht auf den Tisch, da ist schöner Lack drauf!"

Slang

"Hast du Lack gesoffen oder was?"

Fun Fact

The word is related to 'Lakh' (100,000) in Hindi, because the lac insects were thought to appear in huge numbers (hundreds of thousands).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /lak/

US /lɑːk/

The stress is on the only syllable: Lack.

Rhymes With

Back (cheek) Sack (bag) Pack (pack) Zack (quickly) Wrack (wreck) Dreck (dirt - near rhyme) Knack (crack) Schmack (taste - rare)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it like the English word 'lake'.
Making the 'a' too long (like 'Laak').
Pronouncing the 'L' too darkly (velarized L).
Confusing it with 'Laken' (long 'a').
Softening the 'ck' to a 'ch' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts, often appears in compounds.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct gender and adjective endings (den neuen Lack).

Speaking 2/5

Short word, easy to pronounce once the 'a' sound is mastered.

Listening 2/5

Clear sound, but watch out for similar words like 'Laken'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

die Farbe das Holz das Auto neu glänzen

Learn Next

lackieren die Oberfläche der Pinsel schleifen die Versiegelung

Advanced

die Viskosität die Korrosion das Lösungsmittel die Pigmentierung

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Declension

Der Lack (nom), den Lack (acc), dem Lack (dat), des Lacks (gen).

Compound Noun Gender

Der Nagel + der Lack = der Nagellack (determined by the last word).

Adjective Endings with Masculine Nouns

Ein roter Lack (nom), einen roten Lack (acc).

Separable Verbs with 'Lack'

Ich trage den Lack auf (auftragen).

Passive Voice in Process Descriptions

Der Lack wird aufgetragen.

Examples by Level

Der Lack ist rot.

The varnish/polish is red.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

Ich kaufe Lack.

I am buying varnish.

Accusative object without an article.

Ist der Lack trocken?

Is the varnish dry?

Question form with 'sein'.

Das ist blauer Nagellack.

That is blue nail polish.

Compound noun: Nagel + Lack.

Vorsicht, frischer Lack!

Caution, fresh varnish/paint!

Elliptical sentence used for warnings.

Wo ist der Lack?

Where is the varnish?

Interrogative sentence.

Der Lack glänzt.

The varnish shines.

Present tense verb 'glänzen'.

Ich mag den Lack.

I like the varnish/polish.

Accusative masculine: 'den Lack'.

Mein Auto braucht neuen Lack.

My car needs new paint/varnish.

Accusative masculine: 'neuen Lack'.

Ich lackiere heute den Tisch.

I am varnishing the table today.

Verb 'lackieren' in present tense.

Der Lack schützt das Holz.

The varnish protects the wood.

Subject 'der Lack' with the verb 'schützen'.

Hast du den Nagellackentferner?

Do you have the nail polish remover?

Triple compound: Nagel + Lack + Entferner.

Dieser Lack ist sehr teuer.

This varnish is very expensive.

Demonstrative pronoun 'dieser'.

Wir brauchen zwei Dosen Lack.

We need two cans of varnish.

Plural measurement: 'Dosen Lack'.

Der Lack hat viele Kratzer.

The paint/varnish has many scratches.

Noun 'Kratzer' as object.

Kannst du den Lack auftragen?

Can you apply the varnish?

Separable verb 'auftragen'.

Bei diesem alten Fahrrad ist der Lack ab.

On this old bike, the paint is off (or: it's seen better days).

Introduction to the idiom 'der Lack ist ab'.

Zuerst muss man den alten Lack abschleifen.

First, you have to sand off the old varnish.

Separable verb 'abschleifen' with accusative object.

Der Lackierer arbeitet in der Werkstatt.

The painter/varnisher works in the workshop.

Job title 'Lackierer' derived from 'Lack'.

Ich bevorzuge matten Lack gegenüber glänzendem.

I prefer matte varnish over glossy one.

Dative comparison with 'gegenüber'.

Der Lack trocknet innerhalb von zwei Stunden.

The varnish dries within two hours.

Preposition 'innerhalb von' + dative.

Welche Farbe hat der Lack deines Autos?

What color is your car's paint?

Genitive masculine: 'deines Autos'.

Es gibt kleine Blasen im Lack.

There are small bubbles in the varnish.

Dative after 'in': 'im Lack'.

Dieser Lack ist umweltfreundlich und geruchlos.

This varnish is environmentally friendly and odorless.

Compound adjectives.

Nach zehn Jahren Ehe ist bei ihnen der Lack ab.

After ten years of marriage, the honeymoon period is over for them.

Metaphorical use of the idiom.

Die Karosserie wurde mit einem speziellen Klarlack versiegelt.

The bodywork was sealed with a special clear coat.

Passive voice with 'werden'.

Man erkennt die Qualität am Glanz des Lacks.

You can recognize the quality by the shine of the varnish.

Genitive: 'des Lacks'.

Der Lack blättert aufgrund der Hitze ab.

The paint is peeling off due to the heat.

Preposition 'aufgrund' + genitive.

Er wollte den Lackschaden nicht der Versicherung melden.

He didn't want to report the paint damage to the insurance.

Compound noun: Lack + Schaden.

Die Oberfläche fühlt sich nach dem Lackieren glatt an.

The surface feels smooth after varnishing.

Reflexive verb 'sich anfühlen'.

Dank des wasserbasierten Lacks riecht es kaum.

Thanks to the water-based varnish, it hardly smells.

Genitive after 'dank'.

Der Lack dient als Schutzschicht gegen Korrosion.

The varnish serves as a protective layer against corrosion.

Verb 'dienen als' + nominative.

Die Restaurierung erfordert einen historisch authentischen Lack.

The restoration requires a historically authentic varnish.

Adjective declension in accusative.

Trotz der Politur blieb der Lack stumpf.

Despite the polishing, the varnish remained dull.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

Die chemische Beständigkeit des Lacks wurde im Labor getestet.

The chemical resistance of the lacquer was tested in the lab.

Technical terminology.

Unter dem glänzenden Lack verbarg sich morsches Holz.

Under the shiny varnish, rotten wood was hidden.

Preposition 'unter' + dative.

Diese Lackierung ist ein Meisterwerk der Handwerkskunst.

This paint job is a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

Abstract noun 'Lackierung'.

Er versucht, den Lack seiner bürgerlichen Fassade aufrechtzuerhalten.

He tries to maintain the varnish of his middle-class facade.

Advanced metaphorical usage.

Die Pigmentierung des Lacks ist außergewöhnlich intensiv.

The pigmentation of the lacquer is exceptionally intense.

Nouns ending in -ung and -ität.

Sprühlacke müssen in gut belüfteten Räumen verwendet werden.

Spray paints must be used in well-ventilated rooms.

Plural compound noun with modal verb.

Die Viskosität des Lacks beeinflusst maßgeblich das Endergebnis.

The viscosity of the varnish significantly influences the final result.

High-level technical vocabulary.

Manche Kritiker sehen in seinem Werk nur einen oberflächlichen Lack.

Some critics see only a superficial varnish in his work.

Subtle metaphorical critique.

Die Epoxidharzlacke zeichnen sich durch extreme Härte aus.

Epoxy resin lacquers are characterized by extreme hardness.

Reflexive verb 'sich auszeichnen durch'.

Der Lack ist ab, und die nackte Wahrheit kommt ans Licht.

The shine is gone, and the naked truth comes to light.

Sophisticated use of an idiom.

Die Diffusionsoffenheit des Lacks ist für Fachwerkhäuser essenziell.

The vapor permeability of the varnish is essential for half-timbered houses.

Very specific architectural term.

Die Lackkunst der Edo-Zeit fasziniert durch ihre Detailverliebtheit.

The lacquer art of the Edo period fascinates with its attention to detail.

Historical/Artistic context.

Witterungseinflüsse haben den Lack über die Jahrzehnte zersetzt.

Weather conditions have decomposed the varnish over the decades.

Complex noun and perfect tense.

Ein Hauch von Lack lag in der Luft der kleinen Werkstatt.

A hint of varnish hung in the air of the small workshop.

Literary style.

Common Collocations

den Lack auftragen

glänzender Lack

matter Lack

frisch lackiert

Lackschaden reparieren

den Lack abschleifen

wasserlöslicher Lack

kratzfestes Lack

eine Schicht Lack

der Lack splittert

Common Phrases

Nagellack auftragen

— To put on nail polish. Used in beauty contexts.

Sie trägt jeden Sonntag neuen Nagellack auf.

Lack und Leder

— Often used to describe a specific style of clothing (fetish or rock).

Auf der Party gab es viel Lack und Leder zu sehen.

frisch lackiert

— Freshly painted. A very common warning sign.

Berühr die Tür nicht, sie ist frisch lackiert.

Lackschäden beseitigen

— To remove/fix paint damage. Common in car ads.

Wir beseitigen Lackschäden aller Art.

Klarlack verwenden

— To use clear varnish. Common in woodworking.

Verwende Klarlack, um die Farbe des Holzes nicht zu verändern.

in Lack und Glanz

— In perfect, shiny condition. Often used for cars or shoes.

Das Auto steht in Lack und Glanz in der Garage.

Sprühlack kaufen

— To buy spray paint. Common for graffiti or quick DIY.

Ich muss noch schwarzen Sprühlack kaufen.

den Lack polieren

— To polish the paint/varnish. Especially for cars.

Er verbringt den ganzen Samstag damit, den Lack zu polieren.

einen Lack anmischen

— To mix a specific varnish color/type.

Der Profi kann den Lack genau nach Wunsch anmischen.

Lack für Außen

— Varnish for outdoor use. Essential for garden furniture.

Dieser Lack für Außen ist besonders wetterbeständig.

Often Confused With

der Lack vs Farbe

Farbe is general paint (walls, art), Lack is hard finish (cars, wood).

der Lack vs Laken

Laken means bedsheet. Pronounced with a long 'a'.

der Lack vs Lasur

Lasur is transparent; Lack is usually opaque and thick.

Idioms & Expressions

"Der Lack ist ab"

— Something is no longer new, beautiful, or functioning as well as it used to. It's past its prime.

Nach zwanzig Jahren im Beruf ist bei ihm der Lack ab.

Colloquial

"jemandem eine Überdosis Lack verpassen"

— Extremely informal/aggressive slang meaning to hit or scold someone severely.

Wenn er nicht aufhört, verpasse ich ihm eine Überdosis Lack.

Slang/Aggressive

"auf Lack sein"

— To be high on drugs (specifically inhalants or chemicals) or just looking very sharp/dressed up.

Guck dir den an, der ist ja völlig auf Lack.

Slang

"unter dem Lack"

— Beneath the surface/facade.

Unter dem Lack der Freundlichkeit war er eigentlich sehr arrogant.

Literary

"den Lack ankratzen"

— To damage someone's reputation or ego slightly.

Diese Kritik hat seinen Lack ordentlich angekratzt.

Informal

"Lack gesoffen haben"

— To have 'drunk varnish'—used to describe someone acting crazy or stupid.

Hast du Lack gesoffen? Was machst du da?

Very Informal/Insult

"glänzen wie frisch lackiert"

— To be extremely clean and shiny.

Seine neuen Schuhe glänzen wie frisch lackiert.

Neutral

"der polierte Lack"

— Referring to a perfect but perhaps fake facade.

Hinter dem polierten Lack der Firma stecken große Probleme.

Journalistic

"Lackschuh-Diplomat"

— A derogatory term for a diplomat who cares more about appearances than substance.

Wir brauchen echte Lösungen, keine Lackschuh-Diplomaten.

Political Slang

"frischen Lack brauchen"

— Needing a makeover or a fresh start.

Diese Idee braucht dringend mal wieder frischen Lack.

Informal

Easily Confused

der Lack vs die Farbe

Both translate to 'paint' in some contexts.

Farbe is for walls (Wandfarbe) or drawings. Lack is for a hard, protective, often shiny finish on objects.

Ich streiche die Wand mit Farbe, aber das Auto mit Lack.

der Lack vs das Laken

Similar sound.

Laken is a bedsheet (neuter). Lack is varnish (masculine).

Ich wechsle das Laken im Bett. Ich poliere den Lack am Auto.

der Lack vs die Lasur

Both are wood coatings.

Lasur is thin and lets the wood grain show. Lack forms a solid, often shiny layer on top.

Für den Gartenstuhl nehme ich eine Lasur, für den Schreibtisch einen Lack.

der Lack vs der Firnis

Both mean varnish.

Firnis is specifically for art (paintings). Lack is for industrial or household objects.

Der Maler schützt sein Bild mit Firnis.

der Lack vs die Politur

Related to shine.

Lack is the coating itself. Politur is the cleaning/shining agent used on the Lack.

Nach dem Waschen trage ich die Politur auf den Lack auf.

Sentence Patterns

Der Lack ist [Adjektiv].

Der Lack ist blau.

Ich brauche [Adjektiv] Lack für [Substantiv].

Ich brauche neuen Lack für den Stuhl.

Bevor man [Verb], muss man den Lack [Verb].

Bevor man streicht, muss man den Lack abschleifen.

Bei [Dativ] ist der Lack ab.

Bei diesem Haus ist der Lack ab.

Der Lack dient als [Substantiv].

Der Lack dient als Schutz gegen Rost.

Trotz [Genitiv] blieb der Lack [Adjektiv].

Trotz der Politur blieb der Lack matt.

Die [Substantiv] des Lacks ist [Adjektiv].

Die Haltbarkeit des Lacks ist beeindruckend.

Es ist nur ein [Adjektiv] Lack, der [Verb].

Es ist nur ein dünner Lack, der die Wahrheit verbirgt.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in DIY, automotive, and beauty contexts.

Common Mistakes

Die Lack ist rot. → Der Lack ist rot.
Lack is masculine, not feminine. Use 'der'.
Ich brauche Autofarbe. → Ich brauche Autolack.
For vehicles, the specific term 'Lack' is always used instead of 'Farbe'.
Der Lack ist lange. → Der Lack ist ab.
The idiom for something being old or past its prime is specifically 'Der Lack ist ab'.
Ich mache Lack auf den Tisch. → Ich lackiere den Tisch.
While the first is understood, the verb 'lackieren' is much more natural.
Ich kaufe einen Lacken. → Ich kaufe einen Lack.
'Lacken' is not the singular form. Don't confuse it with 'Laken' (sheet).

Tips

Remember the Gender

Think of a 'Man in a Lacquer suit' to remember that Lack is masculine (der).

Compound Power

If you know 'Lack', you already know half of 'Nagellack', 'Autolack', and 'Klarlack'.

Car Talk

In Germany, car paint is always 'Lack'. Never say 'Autofarbe'.

Aging Gracefully

Use 'Der Lack ist ab' to sound very native when describing old things.

Shopping Tip

In a Baumarkt, look for 'Buntlack' if you want color and 'Klarlack' if you want clear.

Short Vowel

Keep the 'a' short. If you say 'Laaack', people might think you mean 'Laken' (sheet).

Fresh Paint

Always look for signs saying 'Frisch lackiert' before sitting on public benches!

Eco-Friendly

Look for 'Blauer Engel' on Lack cans; it means the varnish is more eco-friendly.

Double Consonant

The 'ck' tells you the preceding vowel 'a' must be short.

Precision

Germans distinguish strictly between 'Lack' and 'Lasur'. Make sure you pick the right one for your wood.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'LACK' of scratches because the 'LACK' (varnish) protects the car. Or imagine someone 'LACKing' energy when 'der LACK ist ab'.

Visual Association

Imagine a shiny red sports car with a giant 'L' on it. The 'L' stands for 'Lack'.

Word Web

Nagellack Autolack Klarlack Lackierer Lackierung Lackschaden Lackdose Lackstift

Challenge

Go to a German DIY store website (like OBI.de) and search for 'Lack'. Try to find three different types (e.g., Buntlack, Heizkörperlack, Möbellack).

Word Origin

Borrowed in the 16th century from Italian 'lacca', which came from Arabic 'lakk' and Persian 'lāk'. It ultimately stems from the Sanskrit word 'lākshā'.

Original meaning: A red resinous substance secreted by certain insects (lac), used as a pigment and for making shellac.

Indo-European (via Italian/Arabic/Persian/Sanskrit).

Cultural Context

No major sensitivities, but 'Lack und Leder' can have sexual connotations in certain contexts.

English speakers often say 'the paint is peeling', but Germans prefer the 'varnish' metaphor ('der Lack ist ab').

The song 'Der Lack ist ab' by various German artists (often about aging). The German TV series 'Der Lack ist ab' (a comedy about a middle-aged couple). Technical manuals from BMW or Mercedes-Benz regarding 'Lackpflege'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the DIY store (Baumarkt)

Wo finde ich den Holzlack?
Ist dieser Lack für draußen geeignet?
Ich brauche einen matten Lack.
Haben Sie diesen Lack auch in Blau?

At the car mechanic (Werkstatt)

Können Sie den Lackschaden reparieren?
Wie viel kostet die neue Lackierung?
Der Lack am Kotflügel ist zerkratzt.
Ist das der Originallack?

At the drugstore (Drogerie)

Welcher Nagellack trocknet am schnellsten?
Ich suche einen Nagellackentferner ohne Aceton.
Haben Sie auch Bio-Nagellack?
Dieser Lack hält besonders lange.

Furniture Restoration

Zuerst den alten Lack entfernen.
Dann den neuen Lack dünn auftragen.
Zwischen den Schichten den Lack schleifen.
Der Lack muss über Nacht trocknen.

Metaphorical/Daily Life

Bei dem Auto ist der Lack ab.
Sein Lack ist ordentlich angekratzt.
Alles nur Fassade und Lack.
Er ist wieder voll auf Lack.

Conversation Starters

"Welche Farbe hat der Lack deines Traumautos?"

"Benutzt du oft Nagellack, oder magst du es lieber natürlich?"

"Hast du schon mal selbst ein Möbelstück mit Lack gestrichen?"

"Was bedeutet für dich die Redewendung 'Der Lack ist ab'?"

"Findest du matten oder glänzenden Lack bei Autos schöner?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe ein altes Objekt, bei dem 'der Lack ab' ist. Warum ist es trotzdem noch wertvoll für dich?

Stell dir vor, du renovierst dein Zimmer. Welche Rolle spielt 'Lack' dabei?

Schreibe über einen Tag in einer Autolackiererei. Was passiert dort?

Warum ist uns die äußere Erscheinung (der 'Lack') oft so wichtig?

Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile von lösungsmittelhaltigem vs. wasserbasiertem Lack.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Nein, es gibt auch matten Lack. In Baumärkten kann man zwischen 'hochglänzend', 'seidenmatt' und 'matt' wählen. Besonders bei modernen Autos ist matter Lack sehr beliebt.

Das ist eine Redewendung. Sie bedeutet, dass etwas oder jemand nicht mehr so schön, neu oder leistungsfähig ist wie früher. Es wird oft für alte Autos, Gebäude oder auch für Menschen in ihrem Alter verwendet.

Lack bildet eine harte, schützende Schicht auf Oberflächen wie Metall oder Holz. Farbe wird meistens für Wände oder künstlerische Zwecke verwendet und zieht oft mehr in den Untergrund ein oder bleibt porös.

Das heißt 'der Nagellack'. Es ist ein zusammengesetztes Wort aus 'Nagel' (nail) und 'Lack' (polish/varnish).

Es ist immer maskulin: DER Lack. Das ist wichtig für die Grammatik, zum Beispiel: 'Ich sehe den Lack' (Akkusativ).

Technisch gesehen ja, aber man macht es selten. Es gibt speziellen 'Wandlack' für Küchen oder Badezimmer, weil er wasserfest ist. Normalerweise benutzt man aber 'Wandfarbe'.

Ein Lackschaden ist ein Kratzer oder eine Macke in der Lackierung, meistens bei einem Auto. Das kann den Wert des Autos senken.

Das Verb ist 'lackieren'. Zum Beispiel: 'Ich lackiere meinen alten Schrank weiß.'

Klarlack ist ein durchsichtiger Lack. Er hat keine Farbe und dient nur dazu, eine Oberfläche zu schützen und glänzend zu machen.

Das ist eine sehr unhöfliche Art zu fragen, ob jemand verrückt ist. Es impliziert, dass die Chemikalien im Lack das Gehirn geschädigt haben.