schmutzdecke n. a naturally occurring gelatinous layer of living biological matter on a sand-based water filter, for which it provides additional filtration. Editorial Note: Occasionally spelled in English as “schmutzedecke” or...
deckle n. a thick band of fat on (a cut of) meat; a very fatty cut of meat. Etymological Note: Mostly likely connected to German dicht ‘thick,’ dick ‘thick’ or ‘fat,’ or Dicke ‘fat person, a fatty.’ The prefix dick- is used to to indicate...
sitzprobe n. a first, rough rehearsal of an opera or musical stageplay with singers and musicians, but without acting, scenery, or costumes. Etymological Note: German for ‘seated test’ or ‘sitting trial.’ (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)