körnigem

Körnigem is the inflected form of the German adjective körnig, which means grainy or granular. It is used to describe textures or appearances that display small particles or grains, rather than a smooth surface. The term is common in discussions of images, films, and materials where a visible grain-like pattern appears.

Etymology and grammar notes: The base word körnig derives from Körnung or Korn (grain). In German, adjectives alter their endings according to case, gender, and article. Körnigem is the dative singular form, typically appearing after prepositions that require the dative case, for example in phrases like mit körnigem Rauschen, meaning “with grainy noise.”

Applications and contexts: In photography and cinematography, körnig describes film grain or sensor noise that gives an image a textured, less smooth look. In analog film, Körnung refers to the size and distribution of physical grains in the emulsion; in digital photography, a similar grainy appearance is produced by high ISO settings or sensor characteristics. Beyond imaging, körnig can describe the texture of materials and surfaces, such as rocks, metals, or textiles, where a granular or speckled structure is salient. In printing or painting, körnig or körniges Erscheinungsbild may describe a granulated or stippled appearance. The term is part of a broader vocabulary around texture and visual quality, with Körnung as a related noun denoting grain size and distribution.

See also: Körnung, Körnungseindruck, grainy image, film grain, sensor noise.