In German
Vater
Meaning: father
Formal or informal? “Papa” or “Vati” is the everyday, affectionate word. “Vater” is the neutral term, used formally.
Example sentences
MeinVaterarbeitetimBüro.
My father works in an office.
Papa,kommstdumit?
Dad, are you coming too?
DerVaterliestseinemSohnvor.
The father reads to his son.
Grammar note
“Der Vater” is masculine. Its plural, “Väter”, takes an umlaut.
Common mistake
Don't use “Vater” to address your father directly in conversation; “Papa” is the natural way.
Quick check
Which word means “father”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What do children call their father?
“Papa” or “Vati”.
What's the plural of Vater?
“Väter”, with an umlaut.