Auschwitz
Auschwitz (name) means the site in occupied Poland of the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II, now used as shorthand for the Holocaust itself. Example: “Over a million people were murdered at Auschwitz between 1940 and 1945.”
How to Use Auschwitz
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe name of the notorious Nazi death camp, now used to refer to the Holocaust and its horrors more broadly.
A grave historical term; used with care and never lightly.
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Over a million people were murdered at _____ between 1940 and 1945.
Etymology
The German name for the Polish town of Oświęcim, near which the camp was built.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Auschwitz” mean?
The word “Auschwitz” means the site in occupied Poland of the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II, now used as shorthand for the Holocaust itself. In plain terms, the name of the notorious Nazi death camp, now used to refer to the Holocaust and its horrors more broadly.
How do you pronounce “Auschwitz”?
“Auschwitz” is pronounced OWSH-vihts (/ˈaʊʃ.vɪts/ in IPA).
How do you use “Auschwitz” in a sentence?
Here is “Auschwitz” used in a sentence: “Over a million people were murdered at Auschwitz between 1940 and 1945.”
What part of speech is “Auschwitz”?
“Auschwitz” is a name.
Where does the word “Auschwitz” come from?
The word “Auschwitz” comes from German. The German name for the Polish town of Oświęcim, near which the camp was built.
Is “Auschwitz” a common word?
“Auschwitz” is an uncommon word in modern English.
Featured In
Vocabulary lists that include Auschwitz: