ingang

Ing ang is a term used in German and Dutch to denote the point of entry into a building, room, or site. In German, the standard spelling is Eingang with a capital E; in Dutch, the form is ingang. The word translates to English as entrance or entry and appears on signs, doors, and architectural plans to designate where people may enter.

Etymology and cognates: In German, Eingang is formed from ein- meaning “in” and Gang meaning “way” or “passage,” with roots in Old High German. In Dutch, ingang derives from Middle Dutch ingan or ingaan, from the verb ingaan meaning “to go in,” itself tracing to a Proto-Germanic origin related to going or entering. The underlying idea in both languages is the point where one enters a space.

Usage and forms: The term is widely used to label entry points in buildings, facilities, and outdoor sites. Common compound forms include Haupteingang or Hoofdingang for main entrance in German and Dutch respectively, and Nebeneingang or Zij-ingang for side or rear entrances. The word also appears in architectural drawings and building signage to indicate access points.

Related terms and variants: In German, related terms include Eingangstür (entrance door) and Eingangsbereich (entrance area). In Dutch, terms such as entree (formal entrance) and ingangssignage serve similar purposes. Beyond its literal meaning, ingang is a foundational concept in discussions of access, circulation, and wayfinding in built environments.