Spitzname
[ˈʃpɪt͡sˌnaːmə]masculine
The English word 'nickname' is translated into German as Spitzname.
Spitzname refers to a familiar, invented given name. While Spitzname is a general term for a nickname, you might also encounter Kosename, which specifically refers to an endearing and affectionate nickname used between partners or close friends.
Meaning: familiar, invented given name (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word Spitzname is a compound of Spitz (meaning pointed or sharp) and Name (meaning name), literally translating to 'pointed name'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Spitzname is a masculine noun, so it is used with the definite article der (e.g., der Spitzname). The plural form of the word is Spitznamen.
When do people say it?
German speakers use various affectionate nicknames to show endearment. For example, Mausi means little mouse, Bärchen means little bear and is used between couples or close friends and Spatz means sparrow and is used in a playful context. Diminutive forms are also common for expressing familiarity, such as Hänschen, which is a diminutive form of the name Hans.
Did you know?
- German uses the diminutive suffix -chen to create nicknames like Hänschen. This suffix automatically changes the grammatical gender of the name to neuter.
- In some German regions, a person might be referred to by a 'Spitzname' that is actually a shortened version of their surname rather than their first name.
- In German culture, using a Spitzname in a workplace often only happens after a long period of trust, as the transition from formal to informal address is a significant social step.
Examples in context
- Was ist Ihr Spitzname?What's your nickname?This sentence is useful for asking someone's nickname using the formal 'you'.Tatoeba #3620798 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2646730 by CK
- Was ist dein Spitzname?What is your nickname?This sentence is useful for asking someone's nickname using the informal 'you'.Tatoeba #3620797 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3373322 by nasirusman
- Mein Spitzname ist Ryck.My nickname is Ryck.This sentence is useful for stating what your nickname is.Tatoeba #4713243 by bonny37, translation #4701621 by Ricardo14
- Könnten Sie mir bitte Ihren Spitznamen nennen?Could you please tell me your nickname?
- Hast du einen Spitznamen?Do you have any nicknames?
- 27 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian and Julia are talking about a mutual friend.
- JulianHast du einen Spitznamen für ihn?Do you have a nickname for him?
- JuliaJa, sein Spitzname ist Leo.Yes, his nickname is Leo.
- JulianIst das ein lustiger Spitzname?Is that a funny nickname?
- JuliaNein, er ist einfach nur kurz.No, it is just short.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nickname” translations and entries Spitzname, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
