Flittchen

German

Etymology

Probably from underlying *Flitterchen, from flittern (to flutter, glitter, giggle, flatter, caress) + -chen, or alternatively from the related noun Flitter (lustre, glitter, cheap jewellery, vanity).

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): /ˈflɪtçən/
  • (file)

Noun

Flittchen n (strong, genitive Flittchens, plural Flittchen)

  1. (derogatory, informal) hussy; tart; slut (a woman, typically young, who is promiscuous or whose appearance and behaviour make her suspect of promiscuity)

Usage notes

  • Some dictionaries define Flittchen as simply meaning “promiscuous woman”, thus being synonymous with Schlampe (slut) and the like. Such use of the word is doubtless possible. However, Flittchen often implies a saucy way of dressing, an active nightlife, an exaggerated inclination to flirting, etc.—perhaps even without the imputation of any above-average degree of actual promiscuity. Conversely, a woman who may be known to be promiscuous, but who exhibits no such behaviour, is less likely to be described as a Flittchen.

Declension

Further reading

  • Flittchen” in Digitales Wörterbuch der deutschen Sprache
  • Flittchen” in Uni Leipzig: Wortschatz-Lexikon
  • Flittchen” in Duden online
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