Initiationsritual
neuter
The English word "hazing" can be translated into German as Initiationsritual. If unsure, use Initiationsritual. Wiktionary also lists Deposition.
Meaning: humiliating initiation practices (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | Note |
|---|---|
| Initiationsritual | neuter |
| Deposition | archaic, feminine |
This term refers to humiliating initiation practices.
Did you know?
- In traditional German student fraternities, a new member is called a Fuchs, which means 'fox'. This refers to the perceived curiosity and naivety of the recruit during their initiation.
- The word Deposition in this context refers to the removal or stripping of status, which differs from the common English meaning of giving a sworn statement.
- When hazing becomes a criminal matter in Germany, prosecutors often use the term Nötigung. This word translates to 'coercion' and focuses on the lack of free will.
Examples in context
- Die Universität verbietet jegliche Form von ritualisierter Demütigung.The university prohibits any form of ritualized humiliation.
- Dieses Initiationsritual war sehr grausam.This initiation ritual was very cruel.
- Wir müssen das schädliche Initiationsritual verbieten.We must ban the harmful initiation ritual.
- Das Initiationsritual verletzte die Würde der Studenten.The initiation ritual violated the dignity of the students.
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are discussing their university fraternity.
- LukasMusst du dieses Initiationsritual wirklich mitmachen?Do you really have to go through this initiation ritual?
- SarahJa, sonst werde ich kein vollwertiges Mitglied.Yes, otherwise I won't become a full member.
- LukasDas klingt nach purer Schikane, Sarah.That sounds like pure harassment, Sarah.
- SarahIch hoffe, es ist nicht zu schlimm.I hope it isn't too bad.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hazing” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
