Farbe
/ˈfarbə/feminine
The English word "color" translates to German as Farbe.
Farbe is a feminine noun meaning a particular set of the visible spectrum. You can use the related adjective farbig to mean "colored" or "colorful". In a different context, the verb ausmalen means to draw using crayons.
Meaning: particular set of the visible spectrum (noun)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Farbe is Farben. If you want to describe the act of becoming red through increased blood flow, use the verbs erröten or rot werden.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈfarbə/
Did you know?
- The phrase Farbe bekennen means 'to reveal one's true colors' or to admit one's position. It originates from card games where a player must declare the suit of the card they are playing.
- The German word Farbe is etymologically related to the English word 'fare', as both derive from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to go' or 'to travel'.
- In German, the word Farbe can also refer to 'paint' used for walls or art, not just the abstract concept of a color.
Examples in context
- Die Farbe ist rot.The color is red.Tatoeba #13837998 by kumakyoo, translation #13843226 by rul
- Rot ist eine Farbe.Red is a color.Tatoeba #8084967 by Luiaard, translation #11856083 by CK
- Die Farbe steht dir.That color looks good on you.Tatoeba #10659587 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #10659407 by CK
- Das Buch ist schwarz.The book is black.
- Das Kleid ist rot und gelb.The dress is red and yellow.
- 239 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Laura and Julian are choosing paint for a room.
- LauraWelche Farbe findest du besser, Julian?Which color do you find better, Julian?
- JulianIch finde diese Farbe hier toll.I think this color here is great.
- LauraDie Farbe passt gut zu den Möbeln.The color fits well with the furniture.
- JulianJa, das ist eine gute Wahl.Yes, that is a good choice.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “color” translations and entries Farbe, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Farbe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
