Kraut

The German word Kraut is a generic term for certain edible plants. It can be a shortened form of Sauerkraut, but it also denotes, especially in its plural form ("Kräuter"), what in English is called herbs. For example, Kräutertee is herbal tea.

In the English language (but not in German), Kraut has also come to be used as a derogatory term for a German, based on Sauerkraut which originated in German cuisine.

In this respect, the word Kraut has to some extent succeeded Hun as a racist term. Whenever Austrians want to insult Germans they use the word Piefke (pronounced "peefke"), whereas Bavarians prefer the word Saupreiß ("Prussian Sow", pronounced "sow price").

See also

• Pejorative terms for Germans
• List of ethnic slurs
• Pejorative words and phrases
• Terms of disparagement
• Insult