Aussteuer

German

Etymology

Derived from Middle High German ūzstiuren (“to equip, furnish”). Analysable as aus- +‎ Steuer.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈaʊ̯sˌʃtɔʏ̯ɐ/

• Audio:

  (file)

Noun

Aussteuer f (genitive Aussteuer, plural Aussteuern)

1. dowry; trousseau; usually restricted to household goods and fabrics given to the bride

   Willst du nicht diese hübsche Decke haben, die ich im Schrank gefunden hab? Dann hast du schon mal was für die Aussteuer.

   Don’t you want this nice tablecloth I found in the cupboard? So you’ll already have something for your dowry.

Usage notes

• The word is now used more often than not in a jocular tone, as above.
• For more see Mitgift.

Synonyms

• Heiratsgut (dated)
• Mitgift

Further reading

• “Aussteuer” in Duden online