das  Karussell

A2

Estimated CEFR level.

/kaʁʊˈzɛl/

🎠 What exactly is a Karussell?

The German word das Karussell refers to an amusement ride that usually spins in a circle, typically found at funfairs (Jahrmärkte), folk festivals (Volksfeste), or in amusement parks (Freizeitparks). It often features seats shaped like horses, cars, or other figures.

There is only this one article (das) for this word in its main meaning. It is a neuter noun (Neutrum).

Sometimes the term is used metaphorically to describe a rapid, recurring change or cycle (e.g., Gedankenkarussell - a carousel of thoughts, Personalrochade als Karussell - personnel changes like a carousel).

🧐 Grammar: A ride through the cases

The noun "Karussell" is neuter and is declined as follows:

Example Sentences

• Die Kinder liebten die Fahrt auf dem bunten Karussell. (The children loved the ride on the colorful carousel.)
• Der Betreiber des Karussells überprüfte die Sicherheit. (The operator of the carousel checked the safety.)
• Mit einem Lächeln stieg sie aus dem Karussell. (She got off the carousel with a smile.)
• Wir sahen viele verschiedene Karusselle auf dem Jahrmarkt. (We saw many different carousels at the funfair.)

🎡 When does the Karussell spin? - Usage

"Das Karussell" is almost exclusively used for the amusement ride. It's a common word that every German speaker knows.

• Context: Volksfeste (folk festivals), Jahrmärkte (funfairs), Freizeitparks (amusement parks), Kinderspielplätze (children's playgrounds).
• Synonyms: Often, "Ringelspiel" (especially in Austria) or "Pferdchenkarussell" (little horse carousel, if it has horse figures) are also used.
• Figurative Meaning: Less common, but possible, is its use for repetitive, circular processes (e.g., "Das Gedankenkarussell hörte nicht auf zu drehen." - "The carousel of thoughts wouldn't stop spinning.").

💡 Mnemonics to help remember

Article Mnemonic: Think of 'das Kind' (the child) riding the carousel. Many things associated with children in German are neuter: das Spielzeug (the toy), das Kind (the child), das Karussell.

Meaning Mnemonic: Imagine going round and round – a carou-SELL. It's like the ride keeps 'selling' you the same spot repeatedly, just in a circle. Or think of 'carousel' sounding like 'carry us all' in a circle.

🔄 Similar and Different: Synonyms & Antonyms

⚠️ Caution: Do not confuse Karussell with Karosserie (car body)!

😂 A little spin for a laugh

Warum mögen Geister keine Karussells?

Weil sie keine Körper haben, um sich festzuhalten!

(Why don't ghosts like carousels? Because they have no body to hold on with!)

🎶 Poem: Round and Round

Das Karussell, so bunt und fein,
lädt Groß und Klein zum Fahren ein.
Auf Pferdchen, Autos, wunderbar,
dreht's seine Runden, Jahr für Jahr.
Musik erklingt, ein froher Schall,
vergessen ist der Alltags-Knall.
Ein Lachen hier, ein Jauchzen dort,
ein zauberhafter, froher Ort.

(The carousel, so bright and fine,
Invites both old and young to ride.
On little horses, cars, how grand,
It turns its rounds throughout the land.
Music plays, a happy sound,
Daily stress cannot be found.
A laugh right here, a cheer right there,
A magical place beyond compare.)

❓ Who am I? A little riddle

Ich dreh mich rund, doch bin kein Rad,
trag Pferde oft auf meinem Pfad.
Auf Festen bin ich meist zu Haus,
bring Kinderaugen groß heraus.

Was bin ich?

(I turn around, but am no wheel,
Carry horses often, it's my deal.
At festivals, I'm usually found,
Making children's eyes grow big and round.

What am I?)

(Answer: das Karussell - the carousel)

✨ More Interesting Facts

• Word Origin: The word "Karussell" comes from the Italian "carosello" or French "carrousel", which originally referred to a type of knightly tournament or equestrian game involving tilting at rings. The circular motion was later transferred to the amusement ride.
• Variety: There are countless types of carousels, from nostalgic historical models to modern, high-speed versions.