die Gestalt
Translation
shape, form, figure, character
Examples
Im Nebel war eine dunkle Gestalt zu sehen.
A dark figure could be seen in the fog.
Das Gebäude nimmt langsam Gestalt an.
The building is slowly taking shape.
Er ist eine wichtige Gestalt in der Geschichte.
He is an important figure in history.
Grammar Patterns
to take shape Gestalt annehmen The project is slowly taking shape.
in the form of ((sb./sth.)) in Gestalt von+3 The demon appeared in the form of a beautiful woman.
Similar Words
Form (form), Figur (figure), Erscheinung (appearance)
Etymology
From Old High German 'gistalt', related to 'stellen' (to place, set). It refers to how something is 'set' or put together.
Memory Tips
The English word 'gestalt' (as in Gestalt psychology) comes directly from this German word, meaning a unified whole or form.