Photo: Annie Spratt/Unsplash/Nicolas Raymond
It is the time of year that single people might seek out a partner, if only to get through the colder months. If you – or your friends – are looking for a cosy relationship, this is a great German word to get familiar with.
Die Kuschelbeziehung refers to a cosy, affectionate relationship, often formed during the colder months when people are looking for someone to snuggle up with.
The word combines kuscheln (to cuddle or snuggle) with Beziehung (relationship). It can describe anything from a close, cuddly companionship to a fully fledged romantic relationship.
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It goes hand in hand with the English term "cuffing season" which is the phenomenon during the autumn and winter months where single people are more likely to pair off with a partner. You'll also hear this English term, which comes from handcuffing (a metaphor for locking things down in a relationship), among younger Germans.
As these partnerships may come with an expiration date, you might also hear the term Winterbeziehung (winter relationship).
While Kuschelbeziehung isn't necessarily a strictly seasonal phenomenon, it captures the idea that cold weather can make being single feel a little less appealing.
Why do I need to know Kuschelbeziehung?
Now that we are into November, the days are getting ever shorter and colder. In fact, in Germany you can describe the current conditions as Das Kuschelwetter (cuddle weather).
Meanwhile, the holiday season is also just around the corner. It can often be a stressful time for people, especially those who are single.
So while it's the perfect moment to stock up on blankets and candles for the season, you couldn't blame someone for hoping to find a partner to keep them warm during this time.
The question as always, for those who find one, is...will the Kuschelbeziehung stand the test of time?
READ ALSO: German word of the day: Gemütlichkeit
Ist das eine echte Beziehung oder nur eine Kuschelbeziehung für den Winter?
Is this a real relationship or just a winter fling?
Ich wünsche mir eine Kuschelbeziehung für die cuffing season.
I want a cuddle relationship for cuffing season.
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