If, like me, you've run out of clever ways to express your true feelings about the current regime—I mean, there's just so many iterations of "f*cking a*sholes" one can utter before the sentiment loses its punch—I've got a great new resource for you!
Welcome to "Ode to German Words," my latest obsession that's as educational as it is hilarious (and helpful!). Ode to German Words is an Instagram account that introduces non-German speakers to awesome German words, complete with pronunciation guides, their literal translations, and their meanings. For each word, the site also provides further context or a deeper dive into its history. And, as a bonus, it's giving me so many new insults to hurl!
Here are some of my favorites from the site, which also all happen to be terrific ways to express your feelings about the current state of the United States and the people currently running our government:
Muffensausen (noun). Literal translation: sleeve-rattling. Meaning: "A sudden rush of fear or nervousness — usually right before something scary or stressful. Like getting the jitters."
Traumtänzer (noun). Literal translation: dream dancer. Meaning: "Someone who lives in their own dream world — can be used positively for dreamers and idealists, or critically for people out of touch with reality"
Mondscheinprinzessin (noun). Literal translation: moonlight princess. Meaning: "A (usually sarcastic or affectionate) nickname for someone who avoids hard work, expects to be treated delicately, or seems a little too elegant or dreamy for reality."
Arsch mit Ohren (noun). Literal translation: ass with ears. Meaning: "A very blunt insult for someone seen as extremely stupid, annoying, or just plain unbearable — essentially calling someone a walking butt."
And perhaps my favorite:
Ohrfeigengesicht (noun). Literal translation: slap-in-the-face face. Meaning: "A very unlikable or smug-looking face; one that just asks for a slap (usually because of arrogance, smugness, or general unlikability)"
Ode to German Words provides these awesome fun facts about "Ohrfeigengesicht":
Germans sure know how to invent brutally vivid compound words. Ohrfeigengesicht combines Ohrfeige (slap in the face) with Gesicht (face) and is used mostly for people who come across as incredibly arrogant, annoying, or self-satisfied. It's not for polite company, but it's one of those rare words that capture a vibe instantly — especially in rants, memes, or jokes. Use with caution… or irony. 👋😤
I can sure think of a few people who fit this description–I know you can, too! And I'm pretty positive that I need to learn German now. If you want to expand your vocabulary with some very helpful German words, head over to the Ode to German Words Instagram! Enjoy!
