The term "blonde" derives from the Old French words blund or blont, which described a color midway between golden and light chestnut. This is why hair with those specific light hues is referred to as blonde.
The Journey of "Blonde" into English
The word "blond" first appeared in written English in 1481. Before its arrival, the native English term for this hair color was "fair," originating from the Old English word fæġer.
- Arrival and Adoption: "Blond" gradually gained popularity and eventually surpassed "fair" in usage specifically for hair color.
- Semantic Shift: As "blond" became the primary descriptor for light-colored hair, the word "fair" underwent a transformation. It evolved into a more general term used to describe a "light complexioned" appearance, extending beyond just hair to skin tone.
This historical linguistic shift highlights how external influences, in this case, Old French, can shape and redefine the vocabulary of a language. The word has become universally recognized for light-colored hair, particularly when referring to a person with such hair, with "blonde" being the feminine form and "blond" the masculine, though "blonde" is often used broadly for both.
Historical Comparison of Terms
To illustrate the change in usage:
| Term | Origin | Original Meaning (in Old French/English) | Current Primary Meaning (in English) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blond | Old French | A color midway between golden and light chestnut (for hair) | Light-colored hair (golden, yellow, light brown) |
| Fair | Old English | Golden/light chestnut (for hair) | Light-complexioned; just or equitable; beautiful (broadened meaning) |
The word's journey from Old French to its established place in English vocabulary is a clear example of linguistic evolution driven by cultural exchange.
