celeste
/θeˈleste/
celeste is the Spanish word for the light blue color that resembles the shade of a clear sky.
celeste is used to describe a specific shade of light blue. It is a specific color name, whereas the phrase azul cielo is a descriptive way to express the same shade.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is an adjective derived from the same root as the English word 'celestial', meaning 'heavenly' or 'celestial'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain countries such as Mexico or Argentina, Celestino is used as the masculine variation of the name Celeste.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, celeste must agree in number with the noun it modifies. Therefore, it becomes celestes in the plural.
How do you pronounce it?
/θeˈleste/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking sporting contexts, particularly in Argentina, the national team is often referred to as 'La Albiceleste' to describe their iconic light blue and white striped jerseys.
- In the Catholic tradition prevalent in many Spanish-speaking countries, celeste is the color traditionally associated with the Virgin Mary's robes in art.
- While English uses 'celestial' mostly for religious or astronomical contexts, in Spanish, celeste is a standard, everyday term used for common objects like clothing or paint.
Examples in context
- Hola, Celeste. ¿Cómo estás?Hello, Celeste. How are you?
- ¡Hola, Cele! ¿Qué tal?Hey, Cele! What's up?
- El cielo está de un color celeste muy bonito.The sky is a very beautiful celeste color.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are looking at a clothing catalog in a shop.
- Daniel¿Te gusta este vestido celeste, Elena?Do you like this celeste dress, Elena?
- ElenaSí, es un tono celeste precioso.Yes, it is a gorgeous celeste shade.
- DanielA ti te quedaría muy bien.It would look very good on you.
- ElenaGracias, Daniel, voy a probármelo.Thanks, Daniel, I am going to try it on.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry celeste, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
