Brocken

American  

[brok-uhn, brawk-uhn] / ˈbrɒk ən, ˈbrɔk ən /

noun

1. a mountain in N central Germany: the highest peak in the Harz Mountains. 3,745 feet (1,140 meters).

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Brocken British  

/ ˈbrɔkən /

noun

1. a mountain in central Germany: the highest peak of the Harz Mountains; important in German folklore. Height: 1142 m (3747 ft). The Brocken Bow or Brocken Spectre is an atmospheric phenomenon in which an observer, when the sun is low, may see his enlarged shadow against the clouds, often surrounded by coloured lights

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Example Sentences

But during a leisurely hike earlier in the year I also enjoyed a rare weather phenomenon known as a Brocken spectre after summiting Mount Errigal.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2023

There were clear views to the front and a Brocken spectre at the back of the mountain.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2023

The Brocken is cloud or mist-covered for 300 days a year, according to travel website Germany is Wunderbar, and wrapped in old superstitions and fairytales involving witches.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2015

Now, as recompense, quixotic Mrs. Brocken proposes to turn all her money over to poor, nasty Tilly.

From Time Magazine Archive

He tried the Brocken business first, But caught a sort of chill; So came to England to be nursed, And here it took the form of thirst, Which he complains of still.

From Rhyme? And Reason? by Carroll, Lewis