Schnupfen
/ˈʃnʊpfən/masculine
The English phrase 'runny nose' is translated into German as Schnupfen. Wiktionary also lists Triefnase.
Meaning: condition of discharge of mucus from the nose (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Schnupfen | /ˈʃnʊpfən/ | masculine |
| Triefnase | feminine, rare |
The term refers to the condition of mucus discharging from the nose. While Schnupfen literally means a runny nose, it is the standard way to say one has a cold.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Triefnase is a compound formed from triefen (to drip or trickle) and Nase (nose).
Which one should you use?
Schnupfen is the standard way to say one has a cold. In contrast, Triefnase is an informal term that focuses specifically on the physical state of mucus dripping from the nose. For a more blunt, colloquial expression meaning 'snotty nose', one might use Rotzige Nase.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express that you have a cold or a runny nose, use the verb haben with the accusative form einen Schnupfen (e.g., einen Schnupfen haben).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃnʊpfən/
Did you know?
- The word Schnupfen can refer to the act of taking snuff tobacco, as both involve the action of inhaling powder into the nose.
- The word Rotz used in the colloquial expression Rotzige Nase is a highly versatile term in German, frequently used to describe something as 'rubbish' or 'crap' in slang.
- While Schnupfen describes the illness, calling someone a Triefnase is often used as a playful or slightly mocking nickname for a child who is constantly sniffing or crying.
Examples in context
- Hast du wieder eine rotzige Nase?Do you have a snotty nose again?
- Ich habe leider einen Schnupfen.Unfortunately, I have a runny nose.
- Der Schnupfen geht einfach nicht weg.The runny nose just won't go away.
- Hast du einen Schnupfen bekommen?Did you catch a cold/runny nose?
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are talking on the phone.
- HannahWie geht es dir, Julian?How are you, Julian?
- JulianNicht so gut, ich habe einen Schnupfen.Not so well, I have a runny nose.
- HannahOje, hoffentlich geht es dir bald besser.Oh dear, hopefully you feel better soon.
- JulianDanke, Hannah.Thanks, Hannah.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “runny nose” translations and entries Schnupfen, Triefnase, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
