Дед Моро́з
Ded Morózmasculine
The English phrase "santa claus" can be translated into Russian as Дед Моро́з (Ded Moróz) or Санта-Кла́ус.
Meaning: fictional figure (name)
Ways to say it
| Russian | Romanization (Wiktionary) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Дед Моро́з | Ded Moróz | masculine |
| Санта-Кла́ус | Santa-Kláus | masculine |
Дед Моро́з is the central figure of New Year celebrations in Russia. Санта-Кла́ус is used specifically when referring to the Western, Americanized version of the character.
What does it mean word for word?
The name Дед Моро́з literally translates to 'Grandfather Frost'.
Which one should you use?
Use Дед Моро́з when referring to the traditional Slavic figure who brings gifts for New Year's, rather than the Western Santa Claus.
How do you pronounce it?
Ded Moróz
Did you know?
- While Santa Claus slides down chimneys, Дед Моро́з typically enters through the front door and presents gifts after a poem or song has been performed for him.
- In the Soviet era, the celebration of Дед Моро́з was shifted to New Year's Eve because Christmas celebrations were officially discouraged or banned.
- Unlike the Western Санта-Кла́ус, the traditional Дед Моро́з is often accompanied by his granddaughter, a beautiful maiden named Снегуро́чка (Snow Maiden).
Examples in context
- Дед Моро́з носит длинную шубу.Ded Moróz nosit dlinnuyu shubu.Santa Claus wears a long coat.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “santa claus” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
