In German

Rücken

Meaning: back

Example sentences

  • MeinRückentutweh.

    My back hurts.

  • ErliegtaufdemRücken.

    He lies on his back.

  • SieträgtdenRucksackaufdemRücken.

    She carries the backpack on her back.

Grammar note

“Der Rücken” is masculine, and its plural is identical to the singular: “die Rücken”, same pattern as “Finger”.

Common mistake

Don't confuse “Rücken” (back, the body part) with “zurück” (back, the direction/adverb) — related in meaning historically, but different words today.

Quick check

Which word means “back” (the body part)?

More words on this topic

Bauchbelly, stomachSchultershoulderBrustchest, breast

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Frequently asked questions

What's the plural of “Rücken”?

The same word: “die Rücken” (only the article changes).

Is “Rücken” the same as “zurück”?

No — “Rücken” is the noun for the body part; “zurück” is the adverb meaning “back” as in direction.