Gefallene

Gefallene is a German noun meaning “the fallen.” It is used to refer to people who have died, especially as a result of war or disaster. In memorial or military contexts, the term appears in phrases such as die Gefallenen or die gefallenen Soldaten to denote those killed in action or in service. The plural Gefallenen is the most common form when referring to a group.

In theology and mythology, Gefallene can denote fallen angels (gefallene Engel), beings cast out of heaven as a result of rebellion. This usage appears in German religious and literary texts and is linked to broader traditions about disobedience, punishment, and redemption. The concept is often invoked symbolically in fiction and art to convey themes of transgression or moral decline.

In modern culture, Gefallene may appear as a title, faction name, or descriptor in novels, video games, and films. Here the term is typically employed to evoke tragedy, resilience in the face of loss, or a sense of forsaken power. The exact interpretation depends on the work and its narrative context.

Etymology: Gefallene derives from the participle fallen (to fall) and functions as a plural noun referring to those who have fallen. The singular forms are der Gefallene (masculine) and die Gefallene (feminine). The term is widely understood in German-speaking contexts and is used across historical, religious, and cultural discussions.