Understanding Idioms Related to the Color Blue

This guide explores the origins and meanings of common German idioms that involve the color blue.

“Blau sein” (To be blue)

Meaning

Informally, “blau sein” means to be drunk. The idiom’s origin is rooted in the historical process of dyeing fabric blue.

Origin of the Idiom

In the Middle Ages, the color blue was not widely available to professional dyers. Its popularity grew with its adoption by religious figures and royalty. The dyeing process was complex and costly, initially relying on Indian indigo. When indigo was scarce, dyers used the “woad” plant. To extract the blue dye, woad leaves were steeped in a mixture of hot water, urine, and alcohol, and left to ferment in the sun.

Due to the expense of alcohol, dyers would consume it during the process. The fermented mixture, combined with sunlight, produced the blue color. Observing drunk dyers lying in the sun led to the phrase “blau sein.” The term “blau machen” (to play hooky/slack off) is also believed to originate from this practice. Interestingly, the dyed fabric initially appeared yellow and turned blue as it dried.

“Sein blaues Wunder erleben” (To experience one’s blue wonder)

Meaning

This idiom describes experiencing an unpleasant or unexpected surprise. It signifies encountering a situation that is contrary to expectations, much like an unforeseen negative outcome.

Origin of the Idiom

This idiom also relates to the medieval dyeing process. Fabrics were initially dyed a yellow-orange color. Through oxidation with oxygen, these yellow cloths unexpectedly turned blue. This sudden, unexplained color change was considered a surprising and often unwelcome event. At the time, the reason for this transformation was unknown, leading to the term “blaues Wunder.” In the Middle Ages, blue was also associated with deception and lies.

“Blaues Blut in den Adern haben” (To have blue blood in one’s veins)

Meaning

This phrase indicates that someone comes from an aristocratic or noble family. It can also be used to describe someone who appears conceited.

Origin of the Idiom

The idiom “blaues Blut haben” originates from Spain. Historically, nobility did not engage in manual labor outdoors, unlike the general populace. Consequently, their skin was paler, allowing the blue veins to appear more prominent beneath the skin. Pale skin was considered a beauty ideal across Europe, and nobles actively avoided sun exposure, leading to the concept of “noble paleness.” In sunny Spain, this was particularly challenging, leading to intermarriages with Northern European nobility to maintain paler complexions over generations.