Butzemann
The English phrase boogeyman is translated into German as Butzemann.
The term refers to an imaginary monster used by adults to frighten children into behaving.
When do people say it?
In Germany, there are other informal terms and figures used in similar contexts. Der schwarze Mann is an informal term used to refer to the boogeyman, and Der Knecht Ruprecht is a character from German folklore associated with the boogeyman who punishes misbehaving children.
Did you know?
- German folklore has a variety of 'boogeyman' figures, such as the Habergeiß, a creature that represents a terrifying goat.
- The term Butzemann shares a linguistic root with the word Butz, which historically referred to a small, mischievous household spirit.
- In some dialects, the Butzemann is associated with the 'nightmare' and is blamed for the feeling of paralysis during sleep.
Examples in context
- Der Butzemann kommt nachts in das Zimmer.The boogeyman comes into the room at night.
- Kinder haben Angst vor dem Butzemann.Children are afraid of the boogeyman.
- Erzähl dem Kind nicht vom Butzemann.Don't tell the child about the boogeyman.
Example conversation
Felix is trying to get Sarah's young child to go to bed.
- FelixGeh jetzt ins Bett, Sarah.Go to bed now, Sarah.
- SarahIch will aber noch nicht schlafen!But I don't want to sleep yet!
- FelixDann kommt vielleicht der Butzemann.Then maybe the boogeyman will come.
- SarahOh nein, ich schlafe sofort!Oh no, I'll sleep right away!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Butzemann, CC BY-SA 4.0.
