Friedrich Wilhelm

German

Etymology

From the large number of regents of Prussia and other German-speaking states who bore this name between the 17th and 19th centuries. Since these regents, obviously, had to sign many documents, the name was humorously identified with signatures in general.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈfʁiːdʁɪç ˈvɪlhɛlm/ (for variants see the two names)

• Audio:

  (file)

Noun

Friedrich Wilhelm m (strong, genitive Friedrich Wilhelm, no plural)

1. (humorous) John Hancock (signature)

   Synonym: Unterschrift

   Setz hier mal deinen Friedrich Wilhelm drunter.

   Put your John Hancock on this, please.