blue-collar
UK: ˌbluː ˈkɒl.ər | US: ˌbluː ˈkɑː.lɚ
adj. relating to manual labor or industrial work, typically involving physical effort and often associated with lower wages.
adj. denoting workers who perform such jobs, as opposed to white-collar (professional or clerical) workers.
blue-collar = blue<color> + collar<garment neckband>
- blue: From Old English blǣw, meaning "color of the clear sky." Symbolically associated with manual labor due to the durable blue denim or uniforms worn by industrial workers.
- collar: From Old French coler (neckband of a garment), derived from Latin collare (neck chain). Represents the clothing distinction between manual (blue) and office (white) workers.
Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in the early 20th century (first recorded in 1924) to contrast industrial laborers—whose work clothes often showed dirt and wear—with white-collar office workers in clean, pressed shirts. The "blue" references the sturdy fabrics (e.g., denim or uniforms) dyed to conceal stains, while "collar" highlights the visible part of attire as a class marker.
Many blue-collar workers in the factory wear protective gear daily.
The town’s economy relies heavily on blue-collar industries like construction.
He transitioned from a blue-collar job to a managerial position.
Blue-collar unions advocated for better safety regulations.
The documentary highlights the challenges faced by blue-collar families.