begeistern

Begeistern is a German verb meaning to fill someone with enthusiasm or to inspire, excite, or captivate. It is predominantly transitive, taking a direct object: Der Redner begeisterte das Publikum. It can also describe a person’s own feeling with the construction sich begeistern für something (or sich für etwas begeistern): Ich begeistere mich für Musik. In the Perfekt tense it forms with haben: Die Rede hat das Publikum begeistert; Es hat mich begeistert.

The noun related to the verb is Begeisterung, meaning enthusiasm or zeal. Phrases like eine tiefe Begeisterung oder große Begeisterung describe strong positive feelings that something arouses in someone. The word is also used in contexts such as culture, sports, education, and media to denote a vivid emotional response rather than mere interest.

Etymology and nuance: begeistern originates from the prefix be- combined with Geist (spirit, mind), historically conveying the idea of inflaming or filling with zeal. The term typically carries a positive connotation, signaling a powerful, uplifting, or engaging impact. It can refer to how a performance, idea, or person moves an audience, rather than to superficial liking.

Translations and equivalents: in English, begeistern is often rendered as to enthuse, to inspire, to excite, or to captivate. Depending on context, it can imply contagious energy, strong admiration, or a compelling appeal.