Empfänger

Empfänger is a German noun that translates to “receiver” or “recipient.” The term has several related uses, centered on the idea of something or someone that receives something from another. In everyday language it is commonly used for people who receive mail or packages, as well as for devices that receive signals.

In electronics and telecommunications, der Empfänger is the device that captures a transmitted signal and converts it into usable information or output. It contrasts with der Sender (transmitter). Examples include a radio (UKW-Empfänger), a television receiver, or a digital data receiver. In optical or wireless systems, terms like optischer Empfänger or drahtloser Empfänger are used.

In postal contexts, der Empfänger is the person or institution to whom something is addressed or delivered. The fields Empfänger or Empfängeradresse designate the recipient’s name and address. The feminine singular form is Empfängerin (plural Empfängerinnen); the plural Empfänger is used as a generic form for groups of recipients.

The word is common across technical, legal, and everyday language, and its meaning is usually clear from context. The English equivalents are “receiver” in technical senses and “recipient” in personal or organizational senses.