kerstman
See also: Kerstman
Dutch
Etymology
From kerst (“Christmas”) + man (“man”).
Pronunciation
- IPA(key): /ˈkɛrst.mɑn/
Audio: (file) - Hyphenation: kerst‧man
Noun
kerstman m (plural kerstmannen, diminutive kerstmannetje n)
Usage notes
The figure of Santa Claus is not native to Dutch culture, and the term generally refers to the Anglo-Saxon depiction. To Dutch speakers the name Saint Nicholas refers to Sinterklaas, who distributes presents to children on the eve or day of December 6, not at Christmas.