VocabDictionary

Fernweh

/ˈfɛʁn.veː/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An intense ache or longing for distant places; farsickness; a strong desire to travel beyond familiar horizons.

Example Sentences:
  • Looking at old maps sparked a sudden, irresistible attack of Fernweh.
  • Unlike homesickness, Fernweh pulls your spirit toward lands you have never seen.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “Fernweh”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

From German fern ("far, distant") + Weh ("pain, woe, ache"). Opposite of Heimweh (homesickness).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

FERN (Far) + WEH (Woe/Pain) = The sweet ache to travel far away.

Common Collocations & Phrases

Frequently Asked Questions About “Fernweh

1. What is the meaning of “Fernweh” in English?

In English, Fernweh (noun) is defined as: “An intense ache or longing for distant places; farsickness; a strong desire to travel beyond familiar horizons.”.

2. How do you use “Fernweh” in a sentence?

Looking at old maps sparked a sudden, irresistible attack of Fernweh.

3. What are English synonyms of “Fernweh”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “Fernweh”?

From German fern ("far, distant") + Weh ("pain, woe, ache"). Opposite of Heimweh (homesickness).