herrschen
Translation
to rule, to reign, to prevail, to exist
Examples
Die Römer herrschten über ein großes Reich.
The Romans ruled over a large empire.
Im Raum herrschte eine angespannte Stille.
A tense silence prevailed in the room.
Grammar Patterns
((over sb./sth.)) to rule over sb./sth. The king rules over the country.
((in sth.)) (a condition) to prevail in sth. Chaos reigned in the city.
Similar Words
Synonyms: regieren (to govern), dominieren (to dominate); Antonyms: dienen (to serve), gehorchen (to obey)
Etymology
Derived from 'Herr' (master, lord). 'herrschen' is what a 'Herr' does.
Memory Tips
Think of a 'Herr' (master) ruling over his domain.