Zirkel (Studentenverbindung) facts for kids

A Zirkel is a special symbol used by student groups, often called Studentenverbindungen, in Central Europe. Think of it like a secret club sign!

What is a Zirkel?

This symbol is a unique way for members of these student societies to show their connection. It's usually made up of fancy, swirly letters that stand for important things about their group. These letters often represent the first letters of a special motto or a greeting.

What the Zirkel Means

A Zirkel usually includes the first letter of the student society's name. It also has the letters "v", "c", "f", and "i". These letters stand for a Latin phrase: "Vivat circulus fratrum!" or "Vivat, crescat, floreat!"

• "Vivat circulus fratrum!" means "Long live the circle of brothers!"
• "Vivat, crescat, floreat!" means "May it live, grow, and flourish!"

Sometimes, a Zirkel might also have an exclamation mark at the end. This means the student society is still active and has members. If the society is no longer active, the Zirkel might not have the exclamation mark.

How Zirkels Are Used

Members of a Studentenverbindung use their Zirkel in many ways. You might see it on their special clothes, called Couleur, or even on things like beer glasses. It's a way to show pride in their group.

Signing with a Zirkel

When a member signs official papers or letters for their student society, they often put the Zirkel after their signature. This is a bit like how some people in other countries add special letters after their name to show their achievements or groups they belong to. It's a formal way to show their connection to the society.

A Straßencerevis (a type of cap) with an embroidered Zirkel and oak leaves.

A beer mug and a Zipfel (a decorative ribbon) with a Zirkel on them.

Images for kids

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  Zirkel of Corps Hubertia Freiburg in Freiburg, Germany

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  Zirkel of Corps Altsachsen in Dresden, Germany

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  Straßencerevis with embroidered Zirkel and oak leaves

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  beer mug and Zipfel with Zirkel

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  Crest of the fraternity Corps Hubertia Freiburg with a Zirkel in the upper right. This crest is a wall display on the outside of a fraternity house.

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  The center of the official fraternity crest of Corps Altsachsen Dresden is marked with a Zirkel.