Sternsinger

carol singers (Epiphany), Three Kings singers

noun SHTAIRN-zing-er Rare

Usage Note

Sternsinger are children who go door to door around Epiphany (6 January) dressed as the Three Kings, singing songs and collecting donations for charity. They write the blessing C+M+B with the year above doorways. A major Catholic folk custom.

Examples

"Die Sternsinger zogen von Haus zu Haus und sammelten Spenden für bedürftige Kinder."

Natural Translation

The carol singers went from house to house collecting donations for children in need.

Literal Translation

The star-singers pulled from house to house and collected donations for needy children.

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