erfinden
Translation
to invent, to make up, to fabricate
Examples
Wer hat das Telefon erfunden?
Who invented the telephone?
Er erfindet immer gute Ausreden.
He always makes up good excuses.
Grammar Patterns
to invent ((sth.acc)) Edison hat die Glühbirne erfunden.
to make up ((sth.acc)) Sie hat die ganze Geschichte nur erfunden.
Similar Words
Synonyms: ausdenken (to think up), entwickeln (to develop); Antonyms: nachahmen (to imitate)
Etymology
From 'er-' (a prefix often indicating creation or achievement) + 'finden' (to find). So, to 'find' something new into existence.
Memory Tips
You 'finden' (find) a new idea, and the 'er-' prefix turns it into a creative act of invention.