Skip to content

wacker

bravely, stoutly, valiantly

adverb VAK-er Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Manner

Also means

gamely, hardily

Usage Note

Wacker is somewhat old-fashioned but still used, often with affectionate irony, to describe someone doing their best with determination and vigour. Sich wacker schlagen — to give a good account of oneself, to hold one's own. It is rarely negative and carries a slightly archaic, hearty flavour.

Examples

"Das Kind hat sich bei dem Rennen wacker geschlagen."

Natural Translation

The child held its own bravely in the race.

Literal Translation

The child has itself in the race stoutly beaten.

Explore German by topic