Hasenfuß

Hasenfuß is a German word that literally translates to "hare's foot". It is most commonly used as a colloquial term to describe a timid or cowardly person. The association likely stems from the perceived skittishness and speed of hares, suggesting a readiness to flee from danger.

In German, the phrase "einen Hasenfuß machen" means to back out of something or to show cowardice. The term can be used in a derogatory manner, though it can also be employed in a more lighthearted, albeit still critical, way. It implies a lack of courage and a tendency to avoid confrontation or difficult situations.

While the primary meaning relates to personality, "Hasenfuß" can occasionally be used in a more literal sense to refer to the actual foot of a hare, though this is less common in everyday language. The metaphorical meaning of cowardice is far more prevalent. The image of a hare's foot also appears in other contexts, such as in superstitions where a hare's foot is considered a lucky charm, but this is a separate concept from the personal descriptor "Hasenfuß".