Stein Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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stein

[staษชn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

A unit of musical sound, equal to two or three gradations on a scale of music.

Synonyms

musical increment, musical unit.

Examples of usage

  • The composer used a stein as a basic unit in his composition.
  • The stein in this piece of music represents a quarter note.
Context #2 | Noun

container

A large beer mug, usually made of pottery, with a handle.

Synonyms

beer mug, tankard.

Examples of usage

  • He ordered a pint of beer in a stein at the pub.
  • The traditional German stein is often decorated with intricate designs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Germany, beer steins are often used during Oktoberfest, a famous beer festival held in Munich.
  • Some steins are beautifully decorated, featuring scenes from German fairytales or historical events, adding artistic value.
  • Collecting unique steins has become a popular hobby, often showcasing craftsmanship and heritage.

Material and Design

  • Steins can be made of different materials like glass, ceramic, or pewter, each impacting their weight and insulation.
  • Many steins have lids, known as 'lid steins', that help keep the drink fresh and the bugs out.
  • The designs on steins can vary widely, from simple patterns to intricate illustrations depicting Bavarian culture.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, steins often symbolize camaraderie and celebration, as characters gather for a drink.
  • Various video games, particularly those involving fantasy themes, feature steins as items players can use to enhance gameplay.
  • Steins have appeared in various iconic comic strips, often humorously illustrating drinking culture.

Trivia

  • The world's largest beer stein holds over 1,500 liters of beer and is a popular attraction at beer festivals.
  • Some steins are equipped with built-in thermometers to monitor the drink's temperature.
  • Wearing a stein-holding costume is a common activity during drinking events, showcasing creativity and fun.

Origin of 'stein'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'stein' comes from the German word 'Steinzeug', meaning stoneware, a type of pottery.
  • It originally referred to various kinds of containers for drinking, not just limited to beer.
  • In the late 19th century, the term became widely popularized in connection with beer mugs.

The word 'stein' originated from the German language, where it means 'stone'. In the context of a beer mug, it refers to the stoneware material that was historically used to make such vessels. Steins have been a traditional part of German beer culture for centuries, often featuring decorative motifs and lids. Over time, the term has also been adopted in the field of music to denote a unit of sound.