Afrikaans is a language full of personality—and sometimes, the words can sound downright hilarious! Whether you’re learning the language, teaching it to your kids, or just want to enjoy a laugh, here’s a list of 20 funny Afrikaans words that are perfectly safe for children and guaranteed to make you smile.
Let’s dive in!
1. Gogga
Meaning: Bug or insect
Why it’s funny: It sounds like a cartoon character!
2. Bekfluitjie
Meaning: Whistling through your mouth (literally “mouth flute”)
Why it’s funny: It paints a picture of your face becoming a little flute.
3. Skelm
Meaning: A sneaky or mischievous person
Why it’s funny: It rolls off the tongue and sounds a bit like a sneaky character in a storybook.
4. Boendoe
Meaning: A faraway or remote place
Why it’s funny: It’s used to describe the middle of nowhere—and just sounds funny!
5. Snorswiel
Meaning: Spinning moustache
Why it’s funny: It sounds like something a cartoon villain would wear!
6. Skilpad
Meaning: Tortoise
Why it’s funny: A slow-moving animal with a name that sounds soft and slow.
7. Doer in die môre
Meaning: Far, far away (literally “far in the morning”)
Why it’s funny: It’s poetic and dramatic in the cutest way.
8. Pikkewyn
Meaning: Penguin
Why it’s funny: It sounds tiny and waddly—just like the bird itself! The word alone makes you smile.
9. Bromponie
Meaning: Motor scooter
Why it’s funny: It combines the word for buzzing/grumbling with a pony!
10. Rakkers
Meaning: Mischievous rascals (often used for kids)
Why it’s funny: A charming way to describe cheeky little ones.
11. Klapperkop
Meaning: Silly or scatterbrained person (literally “coconut head”)
Why it’s funny: It’s playful and harmless, perfect for a forgetful character.
12. Katterig
Meaning: Moody or fussy (like a grumpy cat)
Why it’s funny: Great for describing those “off” days with a smile.
13. Snotklap
Meaning: A slap so strong it makes your nose run
Why it’s funny: The mental image is silly—even though you wouldn’t want one!
14. Gatskuur
Meaning: A sudden, panicked dash
Why it’s funny: It sounds like a wild escape—and no one really knows why it means what it does!
15. Voetsek
Meaning: Go away!
Why it’s funny: It’s strong, but many kids hear it in cartoons or when shooing pets—dramatic and silly.
16. Karnuffel
Meaning: To cuddle, tussle, or play-fight gently
Why it’s funny: It just sounds like something fluffy and fun!
17. Stinkmuishond
Meaning: Skunk (literally “stinky mouse dog”)
Why it’s funny: What a combination—mouse, dog, and stink!
18. Neuspeuter
Meaning: Nose picker
Why it’s funny: A little gross, but guaranteed to make children giggle!
19. Slaapbroek
Meaning: Pajama pants
Why it’s funny: It’s a perfectly descriptive and cozy-sounding word.
20. Wipstert
Meaning: Wagtail (a small bird that wags its tail)
Why it’s funny: It sounds like a toy or a silly dance move!
These words show how fun Afrikaans can be—full of color, creativity, and charm. Whether you’re learning the language or just looking for a laugh, these quirky words are a great way to engage kids and make vocabulary lessons unforgettable.
Which word made you giggle the most? Or do you have another funny Afrikaans word that should be on this list? Share it in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!