der Kreisel
Translation
spinning top, roundabout, gyroscope
Examples
Das Kind spielt mit dem Kreisel.
The child is playing with the spinning top.
Fahren Sie im Kreisel die zweite Ausfahrt raus.
At the roundabout, take the second exit.
Grammar Patterns
((mit+3)) with ... The child is playing with the spinning top.
((in+3)) in/at ... You have to be careful at the roundabout.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Brummkreisel (humming top); Rondell, Kreisverkehr (roundabout)
Etymology
Derived from 'kreisen' (to circle, spin). The suffix '-el' often denotes a tool or object, so it literally means 'a thing that spins'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a small thing (diminutive '-el' feel) that goes in a 'Kreis' (circle). This applies to both a spinning top and a car in a roundabout.