Eiszapfen

icicle

noun EYE-tsap-fen Rare

Usage Note

Eiszapfen is masculine (der Eiszapfen). Icicles form when meltwater from snow on roofs refreezes; large Eiszapfen can be hazardous and must be knocked down from eaves (Dachtraufen). The word is also used colloquially for very cold hands or feet.

Examples

"Lange Eiszapfen hingen vom Dachrand ins Leere."

Natural Translation

Long icicles hung from the roof edge into empty space.

Literal Translation

Long icicles hung from the roof edge into the void.

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