Kleine
The German word for shorty is Kleine.
The term is used to refer to a short person.
Meaning: a short person (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Kleine is the default, the term Kleiner can be used informally to mean 'little one' when referring to someone as a 'shorty'.
Did you know?
- The word Kleine is a substantivized adjective, meaning it transforms from a describing word into a noun simply by changing its capitalization.
- If you use Kleine to describe an adult woman, it can sound patronizing or condescending, as if you are treating her like a child.
- While Kleine literally means 'small one', it is often used as an affectionate term of endearment for a child or a romantic partner, regardless of their actual height.
Examples in context
- Was geht, kleiner? Lust auf eine Runde Basketball?What's up, shorty? Up for a round of basketball?
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are standing next to each other.
- JulianDu bist ja eine Kleine, Sarah!You're such a shorty, Sarah!
- SarahUnd du bist einfach zu groß.And you are simply too tall.
- JulianDas stimmt schon.That is true.
- SarahNenn mich bitte nicht Kleine.Please don't call me shorty.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Kleine, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
