Weihnachtsmann
/ˈvaɪ̯.naxtsˌman/
Santa is translated into German as Weihnachtsmann.
Weihnachtsmann refers to the legendary figure who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Weihnachten (Christmas) and Mann (man), literally meaning "Christmas man".
Which one should you use?
While Weihnachtsmann is the standard German term, Germans also frequently use the English loanword Santa Claus in modern contexts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In southern Germany and Austria, Christkind is a common term for the figure bringing gifts, meaning "Christ child".
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Weihnachtsmann is Weihnachtsmänner.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈvaɪ̯.naxtsˌman/. The stress is on the first of the three syllables.
When do people say it?
In many parts of Germany, the traditional figure who brings gifts is the Christkind rather than the Weihnachtsmann.
Did you know?
- In some Alpine regions, the Weihnachtsmann is accompanied by the Krampus, a terrifying horned beast who chains up naughty children.
- While Weihnachtsmann is the gift-giver, he is often accompanied by Knecht Ruprecht, a stern helper who punishes naughty children with a bundle of twigs.
- In traditional German households, children leave their shoes outside the door or by the window for the Weihnachtsmann or Christkind to fill with treats.
Examples in context
- Der Weihnachtsmann war da.Santa Claus was here.This sentence uses Weihnachtsmann to state that Santa Claus was present.Tatoeba #11802250 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #9444600 by Cabo
- Glaubst du an den Weihnachtsmann?Do you believe in Santa Claus?This sentence uses Weihnachtsmann to ask if someone believes in Santa Claus.Tatoeba #9176931 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #6042710 by mailohilohi
- Den Weihnachtsmann gibt es nicht.Santa Claus isn't real.This sentence uses Weihnachtsmann to state that Santa Claus is not real.Tatoeba #12182616 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #10661968 by AutoBot
- Die Kinder warten gespannt auf den Weihnachtsmann.The children are anxiously waiting for Santa Claus.
- Was bringt der Nikolaus in diesem Jahr?What will Santa Claus bring this year?
- Das Christkind bringt den Kindern Geschenke.The Christ child brings presents to the children.
- Die Kinder freuen sich, wenn der Weihnachtsvater kommt.The children are excited when Santa Claus comes.
- 73 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are decorating the living room for Christmas.
- LukasWo lassen wir die Plätzchen für den Weihnachtsmann?Where should we leave the cookies for Santa?
- HannahStell sie einfach auf den Tisch, Lukas.Just put them on the table, Lukas.
- LukasIch hoffe, der Weihnachtsmann findet sie schnell.I hope Santa finds them quickly.
- HannahDas wird er schon, keine Sorge.He will, don't worry.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Weihnachtsmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
