Kirmes

Contents

GermanEdit

Alternative formsEdit

• Kirmis, plural Kirmisse

EtymologyEdit

From Middle High German kirmesse, contraction of kirche (“church”) + messe (“mass”), referring to annual solemn masses on the anniversaries of the consecration of village churches (contemporary Kirchweihfest), which developed into major village festivals. Compare the same in Dutch kermis.

PronunciationEdit

• IPA^(key): /ˈkɪʁməs/, [ˈkɪʁməs], [ˈkɪɐ̯məs]

NounEdit

Kirmes f (genitive Kirmes, plural Kirmessen)

1. (regional) fair, funfair

Usage notesEdit

• The word is common throughout western and central Germany. It is also used in some parts of northern and southern Germany, but may not be familiar to speakers from certain regions.

SynonymsEdit

• Jahrmarkt
• Kirchweih
• Rummel

Further readingEdit

• Kirmes in Duden online