Definition: a rather sinister looking Santa Claus figure modeled of Papier-mâché, usually of German origin, and made around the turn of the 20th century
Pronunciation: bel-snik-el
Also Known As: the Pennsylvania Dutch Santa figure, Pelze Nichol, which was pronounced "pelsnickle" by Americans and eventually became belsnickle
Alternate Spellings: belschnickle
Common Misspellings: belsnickel
Examples: Diana bid on a number of vintage Christmas decorations including several 12" belsnickles.
