dunkel

Dunkel is a German adjective meaning dark, dim, or obscure. It is used to describe lighting, colors, and tones, and it can function as a predicate or attribute, often contrasted with hell (light). For example: Der Raum ist dunkel. Dunkle Farben wirken wärmer und gedämpfter. The adjective appears in compounds and color descriptors such as dunkelgrün (dark green) or dunkelbraun (dark brown).

Origins and usage: The form is native to German and shares cognates with related Germanic languages, including Dutch donker. In German grammar, dunkel inflects for degree and case when used with nouns (e.g., ein dunkler Raum). The word is widely used in everyday language, literature, and media to denote low light or heavy color.

Beer style: Munich Dunkel is a traditional Bavarian dark lager. Brewed with Munich malt and a modest roast, it presents malty sweetness, bread- or caramel-like notes, and a smooth, balanced finish. The style emerged in the 19th century in Munich and remains popular in Bavaria and among craft brewers. Modern examples typically fall in the 4.5–5.5% ABV range and range in color from amber to deep brown.

Other uses: The term also contributes to compound nouns and set phrases, most notably in the noun dunkelheit meaning darkness, or in product names and cultural references where “dunkel” conveys a sense of depth or seriousness.