Anhänger

Anhänger is a German noun with several related meanings. It can denote a follower or supporter of a person, group, or idea, as in “Er hat viele Anhänger in der Partei.” It also means a pendant or charm worn as jewelry, for example “Der Anhänger aus Gold.” Additionally, in transportation, Anhänger refers to a trailer or caravan towed by a vehicle, such as “Der PKW zieht einen Anhänger.”

Etymology and usage notes: The word derives from the verb hangen/anhängen (to hang onto, to attach) with the prefix an-, indicating something that is attached to another object. The sense of a person connected to an ideology or group and the sense of an object attached to a chain or cord share a common idea of attachment or association.

Grammatical information: In standard usage, Anhänger is masculine (der Anhänger). The feminine form for a female adherent is Anhängerin; the plural for male or mixed groups is Anhänger, and Anhängerinnen is the plural for female adherents. The plural form is context-dependent and generally appears as die Anhänger.

Examples and nuances: As a person, Anhänger emphasizes allegiance or support (“Anhänger der Bewegung”). As an object, it designates a pendant that hangs from a chain. In logistics, Anhänger specifically means a trailer used with a tractor unit, distinguished from other towing implements by its purpose and regulatory framing.

See also: Anhängerkupplung (trailer hitch), Anhängerschaft (group of followers), Anhängerin (female adherent).