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Fuhrer: meaning, definitions and examples

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fuhrer

 

[ ˈfʊrər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

historical context

The term 'Fuhrer' is most commonly associated with Adolf Hitler, who held the title from 1934 until his death in 1945. In German, 'Fuhrer' means 'leader' or 'guide' and was used to depict a strong, authoritative figure. Hitler's use of the title was part of a larger propaganda effort to establish his rule over Nazi Germany. Over time, the term has come to symbolize dictatorship, oppression, and the horrors of the Holocaust. Today, it is often used negatively in discussions of authoritarian leadership.

Synonyms

chief, dictator, leader, ruler

Examples of usage

  • The Fuhrer rose to power in the 1930s.
  • The term 'Fuhrer' evokes images of totalitarianism.
  • Many leaders use titles to project authority like Fuhrer did.
  • The Fuhrer's ideologies led to widespread conflict.

Translations

Translations of the word "fuhrer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 líder

🇮🇳 नेता

🇩🇪 Führer

🇮🇩 pemimpin

🇺🇦 лідер

🇵🇱 lider

🇯🇵 指導者

🇫🇷 leader

🇪🇸 líder

🇹🇷 lider

🇰🇷 리더

🇸🇦 قائد

🇨🇿 vůdce

🇸🇰 vodca

🇨🇳 领导者

🇸🇮 voditelj

🇮🇸 leiðtogi

🇰🇿 лидер

🇬🇪 მთავარი

🇦🇿 lider

🇲🇽 líder

Word origin

The word 'Fuhrer' comes from the German language, where it means 'leader' or 'guide.' Its etymology is traced back to the Middle High German term 'vüerer' or 'vüren,' which means to lead or guide. The term was used in various contexts in German-speaking countries prior to World War II, including in religious and political discourse. However, it became infamous primarily due to its association with Adolf Hitler, who adopted the title officially in 1934 after the death of President Paul von Hindenburg. Hitler's regime used the term as a central aspect of its propaganda to promote a cult of personality, projecting him as Germany's ultimate authority and savior. The connotation of 'Fuhrer' took a dark turn as the Nazis instigated World War II and the Holocaust, leading to its current association with tyranny and evil. Following the fall of the Nazi regime, the term became largely stigmatized, representing the atrocities committed under Hitler's rule and has since been a point of caution in political discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,406, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.