Why is Thursday Called Donnerstag in German? Understanding the Origins

Discover why Thursday is called 'Donnerstag' in German, tracing its roots to the Norse god Thor. Learn more about the etymology!

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Thursday is called 'Donnerstag' in German, derived from 'Donar,' the Old High German name for the Norse god Thor, associated with thunder. Hence, 'Donnerstag' translates to 'Thor's Day' or 'Thunder Day.' This is similar to how Thursday in English is also named after Thor.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does 'Donnerstag' mean in English? 'Donnerstag' translates to 'Thor's Day' or 'Thunder Day' in English, named after the Norse god Thor.
  2. How are the days of the week named in German? The days in German often derive from planetary names and Norse mythology, similar to those in English.
  3. Why is Thor significant in German and Norse culture? Thor is a central figure in Norse mythology, representing thunder, strength, and protection, influencing cultural naming practices.
  4. What other days are named after Norse gods? In addition to Donnerstag, Tage like Dienstag (Tuesday) is named after Tyr, and Mittwoch (Wednesday) is associated with Woden (Odin).

Watch More

If you're intrigued by language and its origins, check out our other videos on the etymology of days of the week and the influence of mythology on modern language.

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