der Biedermann
Translation
respectable citizen, upright man, philistine, bourgeois
Examples
Er führt das Leben eines Biedermanns.
He leads the life of a respectable citizen.
Der Begriff Biedermann kann auch negativ sein.
The term Biedermann can also be negative.
Im Stück ist Biedermann eine tragische Figur.
In the play, Biedermann is a tragic figure.
Grammar Patterns
to be ((a Biedermann)) He is a truly respectable man.
to be considered ((a Biedermann)) He is considered a respectable man in his neighborhood.
Similar Words
Synonyms: philistine, bourgeois (often negative); Antonyms: rebel, artist, bohemian
Etymology
From Middle High German 'biderbe man' (capable, honest man). Composed of 'bieder' (upright, honest) and 'Mann' (man).
Memory Tips
Picture a man from the 'Biedermeier' period: very proper, conventional, and perhaps a bit stuffy or boring.