der Popo
bottom
A colloquial and often childlike expression for the buttocks.
EXAMPLE
Das Kind ist beim Spielen auf den Popo gefallen.
The child fell on their bottom while playing.
der Popo
bottom
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Meanings
Usage tips
Register and style
'Popo' (bottom) is a colloquial word used especially in children's language or in a very informal, family context. It is inappropriate in formal or neutral situations.
EXAMPLE
„Aua, ich bin auf meinen Popo gefallen!“, rief das kleine Mädchen.
'Ouch, I fell on my bottom!' called the little girl.
Typical collocations
The word is often used in situations that describe small, harmless accidents or actions. Typical phrases are 'auf den Popo fallen' (to fall on one's bottom) or 'einen Klaps auf den Popo bekommen' (to get a smack on the bottom).
EXAMPLE
Pass auf, dass du auf der nassen Treppe nicht auf den Popo fällst.
Be careful that you don't fall on your bottom on the wet stairs.
Word structure
The word 'Popo' was formed by doubling the syllable 'Po' (butt/bottom). Such doublings (reduplications) are typical of children's language in German.
EXAMPLE
Die Mutter cremt dem Baby den Popo ein.
The mother puts cream on the baby's bottom.
Compare with
Popo vs Arsch
ass / asshole
Arsch and Popo can both refer to the buttocks, but they have a very different tone. Arsch is vulgar and crude. Popo often sounds childlike or diminutive and is especially suitable when speaking with young children.
Popo
Das kleine Kind weinte, weil ihm der Popo wehtat.
The little child cried because their bottom hurt.
Arsch
Der verärgerte Erwachsene fluchte, weil ihm der Arsch wehtat.
The annoyed adult swore because his ass hurt.
In real life
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