Anschlüsse

Anschlüsse is the plural form of the German noun Anschluss, which denotes a connection, attachment, or linkage between two or more entities, as well as the resulting connection itself. The term can refer to physical interfaces, as well as to more abstract or organizational links.

In technology, utilities and everyday devices, Anschlüsse describe how components are joined or connected. Examples include Stromanschluss (power connection), Netzanschluss (network or utility connection), Internetanschluss (Internet connection) and Telefonanschluss (telephone line). Other common terms describe ports or interfaces on equipment, such as USB-Anschlüsse or HDMI-Anschlüsse, as well as plumbing or gas connections like Wasseranschluss and Gasanschluss.

In transportation and urban infrastructure, Anschlüsse often denote connections between modes of transport or between routes and services. This can refer to transfer opportunities at a station or interchange, or to interline connections that allow travelers to continue their journey with minimal delay.

In a broader sense, Anschlüsse can also be used metaphorically to describe links between organizations, systems, or networks, such as business partnerships or data integrations. The context usually clarifies whether the reference is to physical connections, service access, or relational links.

Historically, der Anschluss is most widely known for the annexation of Austria in 1938, a specific political use of the term. In that sense, Anschlüsse is less common, and historians typically use the singular form Anschluss to describe the event.