die Zunft
Translation
guild, corporation (historical), craft
Examples
Im Mittelalter waren die Zünfte sehr mächtig.
In the Middle Ages, the guilds were very powerful.
Er gehört zur Zunft der Bäcker.
He belongs to the bakers' guild.
Grammar Patterns
the guild ((of sth.)) The guild of the blacksmiths was very influential.
Similar Words
Gilde (guild), Innung (craft guild), Verband (association)
Etymology
Derived from Old High German 'zumft', which is related to 'ziemen' (to be fitting or proper). It described a group of people who 'fit' together professionally.
Memory Tips
The sound of 'Zunft' might remind you of 'summit'. Picture a summit where all the top artisans of a craft gather.