stein

Where does the word "stein" come from? It comes from German Stein, passing through German before entering English (1850s).

Stein’s story begins in German: Stein meant “stone.” Stone. Within German, it grew into Steinkrug by 1600s. A stoneware jug. It reached English by 1850s as stein. German immigrants' beer halls made it familiar in the United States. Today, stein means a large earthenware beer mug.

1. Stage 1 · German · medieval Stein "stone", stone.
2. Stage 2 · German · 1600s Steinkrug "stoneware jug", a stoneware jug.
3. Stage 3 · American English · 1850s stein "beer mug", German immigrants' beer halls made it familiar in the United States.