Mehltau
/ˈmeːlˌtaʊ̯/
The German word for blight is Mehltau.
In a botanical context, Mehltau specifically refers to mildew or powdery mildew, the white, powdery fungal growth found on leaves. While the English term 'blight' can describe various plant diseases, Mehltau is more specialized toward this specific fungal condition.
Meaning: type of diseased condition of a plant (noun)
Which one should you use?
The word Plage can also be used as a formal way to say blight when you want to emphasize a widespread, devastating or highly negative impact.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmeːlˌtaʊ̯/
Did you know?
- The modern word Mehltau looks like it comes from the word for 'flour' Mehl and 'dew' Tau, but it actually stems from an ancient word for 'honey'.
- The word Brand used for some types of plant blight literally means 'fire', referring to the scorched appearance of the infected plant.
- In German, the concept of a 'plague' or 'blight' Plage can be used metaphorically to describe an annoying person or a tedious task.
Examples in context
- Die Plage der KorruptionThe blight of corruption
- Die Arbeitslosigkeit ist eine Seuche in unserer StadtUnemployment is a blight in our city
- Ich sehe weißen Mehltau auf den Blättern.I see white mildew on the leaves.
Example conversation
Laura and Felix are looking at their garden plants.
- LauraSchau mal, Felix, die Kürbisse haben Mehltau.Look, Felix, the pumpkins have mildew.
- FelixOh nein, das sieht gar nicht gut aus.Oh no, that doesn't look good at all.
- LauraSoll ich ein biologisches Mittel kaufen?Should I buy an organic remedy?
- FelixJa, das wäre eine gute Idee.Yes, that would be a good idea.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Mehltau, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Mehltau, CC BY-SA 4.0.
