圣诞老人
Shèngdàn lǎorén
Santa claus · trad. 聖誕老人
圣诞老人 (Shèngdàn lǎorén) is the beloved figure of Santa Claus, known for bringing gifts to children during the Christmas season.
What does 圣诞老人 (Shèngdàn lǎorén) mean?
圣诞老人 (Shèngdàn lǎorén) means “santa claus” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “Christmas old man.”
When to use it
Neutral and widely understood. It's the standard term for Santa Claus. Children often ask about him, especially around Christmas.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “SHENG-dan lao-REN.” The first two syllables are falling tones, the third is a dipping tone, and the fourth is a rising tone.
Other ways to say it
- 圣诞节shèngdànjiéChristmas Day
- 圣诞礼物shèngdàn lǐwùChristmas present
- 圣诞树shèngdànshùChristmas tree
Examples
圣诞老人会来吗？
shèngdàn lǎorén huì lái ma?
Will Santa come?
孩子们期待着圣诞老人送的礼物。
háizimen qīdàizhe shèngdàn lǎorén sòng de lǐwù.
Children are looking forward to the presents from Santa.
每年圣诞节，圣诞老人都会给孩子们带来惊喜。
měinián shèngdànjié, shèngdàn lǎorén dōu huì gěi háizimen dàilái jīngxǐ.
Every Christmas, Santa Claus brings surprises to children.
Pro tip: Remember that 圣诞老人 literally means 'Christmas old man,' which helps to understand the character's role in the holiday.
Related phrases
圣诞节 · Christmas平安夜 · Christmas eve圣诞树 · Christmas tree
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