fritz

fritz · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (Informal, chiefly in the expression "on the fritz") In a malfunctioning or broken state.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on the fritz — not working properly; broken or malfunctioning

Related words

See also: broken, malfunction
Synonyms: breakdown, malfunction

Etymology

Origin uncertain. Possibly from the German name Fritz (a common nickname for Friedrich), used as American slang during World War I to refer to Germans. The connection to malfunction may relate to post-war anti-German sentiment, though the exact development is unclear.