Wildfang
/ˈvɪltfaŋ/
The English phrase 'wild child' can be translated into German as Wildfang.
Wildfang is a colloquial way to describe a headstrong or spirited young person. It can be translated as 'wild one' or 'mischief-maker'.
Meaning: headstrong young person (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Wildfang is a common term for a spirited child, the word Rabauke is another informal option used specifically to describe someone who is boisterous and mischievous.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Wildfang is a colloquial term. It is often used affectionately or endearingly by adults to describe a spirited child, rather than being used as a harsh insult.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions, such as Bavaria, the term Lausebengel is used as a regional variation specifically for boys.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Wildfang is Wildfänge, which translates to 'wild children' or 'wild catches'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈvɪltfaŋ/
Did you know?
- The word Wildfang literally translates to 'wild catch', as if the child were a wild animal caught in a trap.
- In German, the word wild is used for a Wildfang to denote spirit, but describing an adult as wild often implies a dangerous lack of control.
- The German language distinguishes between being 'wild' in a spirited way, like a Wildfang, and being 'wild' in a dangerous or uncontrolled way, which would require different adjectives.
Examples in context
- Meine Tochter ist ein Wildfang! Sie klettert gerne auf Bäume und liebt Abenteuer.My daughter is a wild child! She enjoys climbing trees and loves adventures.
- Der Rabauke hat wieder den ganzen Garten durcheinandergebracht.The wild child has once again messed up the entire garden.
- Der kleine Junge ist ein echter Wildfang.The little boy is a real wild child.
- Sie war schon als Kind ein Wildfang.She was a wild child even as a child.
- Pass auf diesen Wildfang auf!Watch out for that wild child!
Example conversation
Julia and Lukas are watching their nephew play in the garden.
- JuliaUnser Neffe ist wirklich ein kleiner Wildfang.Our nephew is really a little wild child.
- LukasJa, er rennt ständig überall herum.Yes, he is constantly running around everywhere.
- JuliaLukas, schau mal, wie er klettert!Lukas, look at how he climbs!
- LukasEr ist sehr mutig, aber auch unruhig.He is very brave, but also restless.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Wildfang, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Wildfang, CC BY-SA 4.0.
