geliebte

Geliebte is a German term that can function as both a noun and an adjective. As an adjective, geliebte means “beloved” and is used before a feminine noun, for example, eine geliebte Stadt (a beloved city) or meine geliebte Freundin (my beloved girlfriend). When used with masculine or neuter nouns, the form changes accordingly (beloved, geliebter, etc.).

As a noun, die Geliebte means “the beloved” and most commonly refers to a woman who is loved or cherished. In historical and literary contexts, it can also denote a mistress—a woman who is the lover of a married man. Because of this nuance, the noun can carry romantic or erotic associations and may sound archaic or literary in contemporary everyday language. The masculine counterpart is der Geliebte (the beloved man).

Etymology of the noun derives from the past participle geliebt of lieben (to love), with the feminine noun suffix -e, yielding a noun that designates the person who is loved. The term appears in German literature, film, and music, where it is often used to evoke intimate or clandestine relationships, as well as to express affection in a generic sense.

Usage notes include its dual sense: in neutral contexts it simply means a beloved person; in historical or literary contexts it may emphasize secrecy or social tension. The word is commonly found in phrases, titles, and dialogue, reflecting themes of love, devotion, and social dynamics.