blonde etymology

Etymology

The word "blonde" is derived from the Old French word "blond," which in turn comes from the Proto-Indo-European root "*bhel-," meaning "to shine."

Meaning and Origin

In English, "blonde" initially referred to the color of hair, describing a light shade ranging from golden to whitish-yellow. The term was first used in the 14th century and has been in continuous use since then.

Semantic Extension

Over time, the meaning of "blonde" has expanded beyond hair color to also include the following:

• A person with naturally or dyed light-colored hair, typically ranging from golden or ash blonde to platinum blonde.
• A light yellowish-brown color used in painting.
• In the United States, "blonde" can also refer to a young, attractive, and often naive or stereotypically unintelligent woman. However, this usage is considered derogatory and sexist.

Usage and Variations

The word "blonde" is primarily used in English-speaking countries. It is also used in some other languages, often with similar spellings (e.g., "blond" in French, "blonda" in Italian, "rubio" in Spanish).

Variations of "blonde" include:

• Blond: A masculine form of "blonde," used to refer to men with light-colored hair.
• Ash blonde: A light blonde shade with a cool, gray undertone.
• Golden blonde: A warm, golden-yellow blonde shade.
• Honey blonde: A rich, golden brown blonde shade with warm copper tones.
• Platinum blonde: A very light blonde shade that appears nearly white or silver.

blonde relate terms

• blond

  Etymology The word blond is derived from the Old French word blond which in turn co

• blend

  Etymology Middle English blenden from Old English blendan to mix stir Proto Germ

• platinum

  Etymology Origin Late Latin platīnum 1735 from Spanish platina 1557 diminutive o

• strawberry

  Etymology The word strawberry originates from the Old English word streawberige whi

• bombshell

  Etymology The word bombshell has its roots in the historical use of hollow artillery s

• individual

  Etymology from Latin individuum an individual thing or being from in not

• mortal

  Etymology Latin mortalis meaning subject to death Proto Indo European mrtós mea

• somebody

  Etymology Some indefinite pronoun Middle English sum or som from Old English

• person

  Etymology Latin persona meaning mask or character in a play Meaning An indiv

• soul

  Etymology The word soul traces its origins to the Proto Indo European root h₂enh₂

• cowboy

  Etymology The word cowboy is derived from the Spanish word vaquero which means cow

• succession

  Etymology The word succession comes from the Latin word succeděre which means to c