A person who enthusiastically takes part in Carnival, especially in the Rhineland. The term is often used as a self-designation or affectionate term for Carnival participants.
example
Am Rosenmontag feiern tausende Jecken auf den Straßen von Köln.
On Rose Monday, thousands of carnival revelers celebrate in the streets of Cologne.
Usage tips
Regional use
The word 'Jeck' (carnival reveler) is typical of the Rhineland, especially the region around Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz. It is used almost exclusively in connection with the Carnival there.
EXAMPLE
In Köln nennt man einen Karnevalsfan einen „Jeck“.
In Cologne, a Carnival fan is called a 'Jeck' (carnival reveler).
Cultural context
In a Carnival context, 'Jeck' (carnival reveler) is a positive term. People proudly call themselves 'Jecken' to express their love of Carnival. It is not an insult.
EXAMPLE
Ein echter Jeck singt alle Karnevalslieder mit.
A true carnival reveler sings along to all the Carnival songs.
Context clues
If you hear words like 'Karneval' (Carnival), 'Fastelovend' (Cologne Carnival), 'Rosenmontag' (Rose Monday), or 'Alaaf' (a Carnival cheer), it always means the Carnival participant. Without this context, 'Jeck' can also mean 'crazy person', but this use has become rare.
EXAMPLE
Am elften Elften um elf Uhr elf erwachen die Jecken.
On the eleventh of the eleventh at eleven eleven, the carnival revelers awaken.