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nounnoun

der Streber, –

nerd

Definition & meaning

The word "Streber" refers to a person who is perceived as being overly ambitious, competitive, or excessively diligent, particularly in an academic or professional context. While it can sometimes be used neutrally to describe a hard worker, it is most commonly used as a pejorative term.

In a school setting, it is the equivalent of the English terms "teacher's pet," "nerd," or "brown-noser." It implies that the person is striving for success at the expense of social popularity or that they are trying too hard to please their superiors. In a professional context, it describes someone who is a "careerist" or an "eager beaver" who prioritizes their advancement above all else.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a masculine noun ("der Streber"). The feminine form is "die Streberin". The plural remains "die Streber" for the masculine and becomes "die Streberinnen" for the feminine.

It is derived from the German verb streben , which means "to strive," "to aspire," or "to aim for." The suffix "-er" is used to create an agent noun, meaning "one who strives." Historically, the term was used more neutrally to describe someone with a strong sense of purpose. However, in student slang during the 19th century, it took on the negative connotation of someone who is excessively ambitious just to gain an advantage over others.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Musterschüler : Usually refers to a "model student" who gets perfect grades.
  • Ehrgeizling : Someone who is driven by excessive ambition.
  • Fleißmeise : A person who is very industrious or "busy as a bee."
  • Fachidiot : Someone who is an expert in one specific field but lacks general knowledge or social skills.
  • Einschleimer : A more vulgar term for someone who "sucks up" to authority.

Antonyms:

  • Faulenzer : A lazy person or slacker.
  • Drückeberger : Someone who dodges work or responsibilities.
  • Blaumacher : Someone who skips school or work (plays truant).
  • Lebenskünstler : Someone who takes life easy and focuses on enjoyment rather than achievement.

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Examples

Warum werden Streber in der Schule oft ausgeschlossen?noun

Why are nerds often excluded in school?

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