Stein

A stein, traditionally known as a *Humpen* in German, is a large, handled beer mug, often made of stoneware, earthenware, pewter, porcelain, or glass. The word 'stein' itself is a shortened form of the German word *Steinzeugkrug* (stoneware jug). Steins are most famously associated with German beer drinking culture, particularly during events like Oktoberfest. They come in various sizes, from small to enormous, and are often decorated with intricate relief carvings, painted scenes, and sometimes, metal lids. Beyond their functional use, steins serve as collectible items and symbols of tradition.

Stein meaning with examples

• At the Oktoberfest tent, the servers expertly balanced multiple steins overflowing with frothy beer, weaving through crowds. A large, ceramic stein with a detailed depiction of a Bavarian village sat proudly on his table. She added to her collection by purchasing a beautiful antique stein at the flea market. After a long day of hiking, he thoroughly enjoyed a cold brew from his favorite, glass stein.
• During the annual beer festival, the atmosphere was electric as people clinked their steins, celebrating together. The hefty stein felt comfortable in his hand as he raised it in a toast. Collectors often covet vintage steins for their historical significance and artistic value. As a souvenir of his trip, he bought himself a small, pewter stein.
• The restaurant offered a vast selection of beers, each served in its appropriately sized stein. He slowly sipped his dark beer from a frosted glass stein, watching the game. The family heirloom stein was passed down through generations as a treasured object. In order to keep it cold and to make sure it did not fall, the stein was fitted with an elaborate metal lid and handle.
• The comedian used a giant stein as a prop during his Oktoberfest-themed stand-up routine. She filled her stein with ale before settling in for a long evening of conversation. The online auction featured a rare, hand-painted stein worth thousands of dollars. The heavy, ceramic stein was used at a German pub and had a beautiful, ornate crest.