Fritz: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ค
fritz
[ frษชts ]
informal name
The term 'fritz' can informally refer to an individual, often implying a sense of foolishness or ineptitude. In certain contexts, it can also signify a breakdown or failure, particularly in technical or mechanical terms, indicating that something is not functioning properly. This usage may derive from the phrase 'to go on the fritz,' which suggests a failure or malfunction that is unpredictable. As a colloquialism, it's mainly used in American English.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He really went on the fritz today.
- The old car is on the fritz again.
- Don't be a fritz; just follow the instructions.
Translations
Translations of the word "fritz" in other languages:
๐ต๐น Fritz
๐ฎ๐ณ เคซเฅเคฐเคฟเคเฅเคเคผ
๐ฉ๐ช Fritz
๐ฎ๐ฉ Fritz
๐บ๐ฆ ะคััั
๐ต๐ฑ Fritz
๐ฏ๐ต ใใชใใ
๐ซ๐ท Fritz
๐ช๐ธ Fritz
๐น๐ท Fritz
๐ฐ๐ท ํ๋ฆฌ์ธ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุฑูุชุฒ
๐จ๐ฟ Fritz
๐ธ๐ฐ Fritz
๐จ๐ณ ๅผ้่จ
๐ธ๐ฎ Fritz
๐ฎ๐ธ Fritz
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะคัะธั
๐ฌ๐ช แคแ แแช
๐ฆ๐ฟ Fritz
๐ฒ๐ฝ Fritz
Etymology
The origin of the term 'fritz' is quite interesting and somewhat ambiguous. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, possibly as a slang term among American mechanics or engineers. The phrase 'to go on the fritz' suggests a sudden malfunction, possibly inspired by the German name 'Fritz,' commonly associated with a stereotypical character. Over time, this term morphed in its usage, beginning to describe not only mechanical failures but also individual foolishness or ineptitude. The name 'Fritz' itself in German culture has historically been a common name, and its association with clumsiness or folly may have contributed to the term's colloquial use in the English language. The blending of these contexts has allowed 'fritz' to remain a relevant term, particularly in situations involving breakdowns, underscoring the unpredictable nature of both machines and people.