vergriffen
Translation
out of print, sold out
Examples
Das Buch ist leider schon vergriffen.
Unfortunately, the book is already out of print.
Die erste Auflage war schnell vergriffen.
The first edition was sold out quickly.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) is out of print/sold out The book is out of print.
Similar Words
Synonyms: sold out, ausverkauft; Antonyms: in stock, available
Etymology
From the prefix `ver-` (away, completely) + `gegriffen`, the past participle of `greifen` (to grab). Literally 'grabbed away'.
Memory Tips
Picture all copies of a book being 'grabbed' (`gegriffen`) off the shelves until it's completely gone, hence `vergriffen`.