In Old English, the word for yellow was “geolu” or “geolwe” in the oblique case. This term was derived from the Proto-Germanic word “gelwaz,” which also meant yellow. Interestingly, both “geolu” and “gelwaz” share the same Indo-European base, “gel-,” which is also found in words like gold and yell.
The etymology of the word “yellow” reveals its connection to brightness and gleaming. The Indo-European root “gʰel-” signifies both a bright, shining quality and the act of crying out or making a loud sound. This dual meaning might seem unrelated, but it actually reflects the ancient association between the color yellow and its vibrant, attention-grabbing nature.
When we think of yellow, we often picture a bright, sunny hue, reminiscent of the sun or a field of daffodils. This lively and radiant color has the power to catch our eye and evoke feelings of warmth and happiness. In my personal experiences, I have often found that the color yellow can lift my spirits and bring a sense of cheerfulness to a space or a situation.
In Old English literature, the color yellow was sometimes used to describe various aspects of the natural world. For example, it could be used to depict the golden rays of the sun, the vibrant yellow flowers in a meadow, or even the gleaming yellow of precious metals like gold. The word “geolu” was a versatile term that could encompass a range of shades and tones, from a pale yellow to a deeper, richer hue.
In brewing and winemaking, the color yellow can also play a significant role. For instance, a pale yellow color in a beer might indicate the use of light malts or a specific brewing process. In wine, yellow hues can be found in various white wine varietals, such as Chardonnay or Riesling, where the color can range from a pale straw yellow to a deeper golden shade.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered many instances where the color yellow has influenced my perception and evaluation of a beverage. The visual appeal of a drink, including its color, can set expectations for the taste and overall experience. A bright, golden yellow might suggest a refreshing and lively flavor profile, while a deeper, amber yellow could indicate a more complex and robust character.
To summarize, the word for yellow in Old English was “geolu” or “geolwe,” derived from the Proto-Germanic “gelwaz.” This term shares its Indo-European base with words like gold and yell, reflecting the dual meanings of brightness and crying out. In Old English literature and in brewing/winemaking, yellow was used to describe various aspects of the natural world, evoking images of the sun, flowers, and precious metals. The color yellow can have a significant impact on our emotions and perceptions, bringing warmth, cheerfulness, and visual appeal to our experiences.