This is the 10839th most frequent German word.
ss
In German, "ss" is a letter combination used to replace "ß" (Eszett) in certain cases, such as in Swiss German or when "ß" isn't available; it represents the same "sharp S" sound.
Usage of 'ss': The word 'Schloss' here refers to a castle. It uses 'ss' because it follows a short vowel, which is the standard spelling rule in German orthography.
Ich habe gestern ein großes Schloss besucht.
I visited a big castle yesterday.
Usage of 'ss': The word 'isst' (from 'essen' - to eat) uses 'ss' to differentiate it orthographically from 'ist' (is). This showcases the role of spelling in conveying meaning.
Er isst gerne Käse zum Frühstück.
He likes eating cheese for breakfast.
Usage of 'ss': The spelling 'Straße' includes 'ß' and not 'ss' due to the long vowel sound preceding it, demonstrating the phonetic rule associated with using 'ß' versus 'ss' in German.