das Kreuz
Translation
cross, lower back, burden
Examples
An der Kette hängt ein kleines Kreuz.
A small cross hangs on the chain.
Ich habe Schmerzen im Kreuz.
I have pain in my lower back.
Jeder hat sein Kreuz zu tragen.
Everyone has their cross to bear.
Grammar Patterns
to make the sign of the cross ein Kreuz machen She made the sign of the cross in front of the church.
to have pain in one's lower back Schmerzen im Kreuz haben I have pain in my lower back after gardening.
to bear one's cross sein Kreuz tragen He has to bear his heavy cross.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Symbol; Rücken (back), Last (burden)
Etymology
From Latin 'crux'. Cognate with English 'cross'.
Memory Tips
The shape of a cross (+) is easy to remember. For 'lower back', think of 'crossing' your arms over your back when it hurts.