Talk like royalty

Why was blue blood a sign of nobility? The real story

Have you ever wondered why rich families are called "blue bloods," or why movie stars walk on a red carpet and not carpets of another color? The answers go back hundreds of years, to castles, crowns, and even a Viking king. Here are 10 everyday expressions with intriguing royal roots.

Yes, Bluetooth, the technology that lets your phone talk to your headphones or your car without wires, is named after a real Viking king. Harald Gormsson ruled Denmark from about 958 to 986, and his nickname was "Bluetooth," possibly because he had a dead, dark blue tooth. Harald is remembered for bringing Denmark and Norway together under one crown.

More than a thousand years later, in 1997, an Intel engineer named Jim Kardach was reading about Vikings while working on a new way to connect phones and computers without wires. He suggested "Bluetooth" as a temporary code name, since the technology would unite devices the way Harald united Scandinavia. Nobody came up with a better name in time, so it stuck. Even the logo comes from the king: it combines his initials, H and B, written in old Viking letters called runes

No, Hollywood didn’t invent the red carpet. The first one we know about appears in a Greek play called "Agamemnon," written in 458 BC, where King Agamemnon returns home from the Trojan War and his wife lays out a red path for him. He is nervous about stepping on it because a walkway like that was meant only for the gods. Red dye was very expensive back then, so for centuries the color stood for kings, queens, and nobles.

A red carpet was rolled out for President James Monroe in 1821 when he visited Georgetown, South Carolina. Then, in 1902, the 20th Century Limited New York train used a red carpet to guide passengers on board; here, the phrase "red carpet treatment" was first used. Hollywood didn’t use it until 1922, at the premiere of Robin Hood at the Egyptian Theatre, and the Academy Awards added theirs in 1961.

Today we say "a king's ransom" when something costs a huge amount of money. That is because sometimes, when a king was captured, his enemies locked him up and asked for a reward to liberate him.

The most famous case was King Richard I of England, known as Richard the Lionheart. When he was sailing home from the Third Crusade (1189 to 1192), he was caught near Vienna by Duke Leopold of Austria. The duke handed him over to the German emperor, Henry VI, who asked for 150,000 silver marks. That amount was two to three times what the English crown made in a whole year. Richard's mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, collected the money by taxing everyone and even taking gold and silver from churches, and Richard was finally freed. That story still lives in the phrase "a king’s ransom."

The term "blue blood" traces back to medieval Spain. In Spanish, it is "sangre azul," and it was used for noble families who claimed their blood was pure and unmixed with Moorish or Jewish ancestry. They pointed to their blue veins as proof of a pure heritage. As nobles didn't work the land, they spent their days indoors, so their skin was pale and their veins showed much more clearly than those of ordinary people.

Today, having "blue blood" means coming from an old, wealthy, or socially prominent family.

"Let them eat cake" is one of the most famous historical lines, pinned on Marie Antoinette, although she never actually said it. The story goes that the queen of France was told that poor people had no bread, and that was her answer. It was right before the French Revolution began in 1789. The phrase highlights the lack of empathy regarding how ordinary people live and survive, and it has kept that meaning.

But the line comes from a book by the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, written around 1765, and he only states that "a great princess" said it. Marie Antoinette was about nine years old then and still living in Austria. The translation is off, too. The French words were "Qu'ils mangent de la brioche," and brioche is a soft, fancy bread made with butter and eggs.

An heir is the person who gets a title or a family's property when the owner dies. "Apparent" here uses its old meaning, "clear" or "plain to see," so an heir apparent is the person whose place in line nobody can take away. We use the phrase for anyone who is clearly next in line for a big job, like the person expected to become a company's next boss.

But for hundreds of years in Europe, that meant the oldest son inheriting the throne. If a king had no son, the next relative in line was called the "heir presumptive" instead, because a new baby boy could still bump them out of the spot.

The "royal we" started in England in the late 1100s, around the time of King Henry II and his son, Richard the Lionheart. Back then, people believed kings ruled with God's help, so "we" meant "God and I." Later, it came to mean "my whole country and I," because a king supposedly speaks for everyone, not just for himself. Today, kings and queens mostly use it only in official papers.

These days, people mostly use it as a joke about someone who acts like they are better than everyone else. Bosses do it too, though, usually to soften an order or to share responsibilities.

"Pomp and circumstance" comes from William Shakespeare’s play Othello, written around 1603. In the play, a soldier talks about the "pride, pomp, and circumstance of glorious war." Back then, "pomp" meant a grand show, and "circumstance" meant a big, formal ceremony, so the phrase described flags, uniforms, drums, and parades. Almost 300 years later, in 1901, the English composer Sir Edward Elgar borrowed those words as the title for a set of marches. The first one became a huge hit, and in England it was turned into the patriotic song "Land of Hope and Glory."

In 1905, Yale University gave Elgar an honorary degree and played his march at the ceremony. Princeton, Chicago, and Columbia liked it and started using it too, and soon it was the graduation song all over America. That is why the phrase now means a formal ceremony, and why the tune plays every spring as graduates walk in wearing their caps and gowns.

There’s one first "palace", the inspiration for all royal family homes: Palatine Hill. It is one of Rome's seven hills, where the city was founded in 753 BC. Roman emperors built their fancy homes there, and Romans started calling them "palatiums."

The word traveled into French as "palais" and then into English as "palace." Today we use it for the homes of kings and queens, like Buckingham Palace. We also say it about any big, fancy place, like the grand old "movie palaces" of the 1920s.

Good manners used to be a royal matter. In the Middle Ages, the court was where the king lived with his knights, ladies, and advisers. Anyone who wanted to stay in his good graces had to follow the rules: speak politely, eat neatly, and show respect. "Courtesy" comes from the Old French word "corteisie," meaning behaving as people did at a king's court. A person who did all that was called "courteous."

The word entered English in the 1200s, and now courtesy simply means showing good manners and being polite.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Surviving in the wild: 10 tips for staying safe in nature

Image: Dominik Jirovský

Nature’s beauty is undeniable, and exploring the great outdoors is a great opportunity to connect with its many wonders. However, heading into the wild without proper preparation can easily become a recipe for disaster. Whether you’re gearing up for a week-long camping trip or a short hike, knowing the basics of survival is essential. And while most of it comes down to careful planning beforehand, here are 10 survival tips that will help keep you safe and ready for whatever challenges nature throws your way!

Image: Sylwia Bartyzel

Modern technology can be incredibly useful, but in the wild, it’s prone to failure due to battery drain or signal loss. Without outlets to recharge, your devices could leave you stranded. Always carry a physical map and compass as backups, and if you’re unfamiliar with them, take the time to learn basic map navigation—it’s a potentially life-saving skill!

But you don’t need to be an expert to benefit from an old-school paper map. By simply studying the area beforehand and memorizing prominent landmarks, you can vastly improve your orientation during the trip, and significantly reduce the chances of getting lost.

Image: Mathurin NAPOLY / matnapo

While this might seem obvious, it’s important to remember that a first aid kit is an essential part of your gear for any nature excursion. Even though you’re unlikely to need it, not bringing one exposes you to unnecessary risks. The last thing you want is to be caught without one during an emergency, far from help and medical services.

However, not just any first aid kit will do. Basic items like bandages, antiseptic, and tweezers are crucial, but you should also consider the most common injuries or issues you might encounter in the area you’re visiting and customize your kit accordingly. If you’re unsure of what to include or prefer a prepacked kit, opt for a more comprehensive option. Finally, knowing how to use every item in your kit ensures you’re prepared to handle emergencies, ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you.

Image: Kieran Osborn

While it might be tempting to drink directly from natural sources, doing so without purification can lead to serious illnesses such as cholera and hepatitis A. Even if the water appears clear and you're far from civilization, it could still harbor harmful bacteria and parasites, either from feces or decaying animals upstream.

If you must drink directly and lack a portable filtration system, choose water from the highest source you can find, and try to trace where it’s coming from. However, it’s best not to take any chances—boiling the water is a simple and effective way to make most sources safe to drink, preventing potential health risks during your trip.

Image: David Schultz

Never underestimate weather conditions when venturing into the wild. Enduring a storm at home, cozy under a sturdy roof, is one thing—but it’s a completely different situation when you’re camping in the woods or hiking in the mountains. In these environments, even a mild storm can become life-threatening if you’re unprepared.

Always check the weather forecast before heading out, but remember that weather is inherently unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. Strong winds or snowstorms in mountainous areas can be extremely dangerous, and even in wooded regions, you must watch for falling branches or lightning strikes. To stay safe, assess the expected temperature range and rainfall, and pack clothing and gear that can handle sudden weather changes. If the forecast predicts consistently bad weather during your trip, consider postponing it.

Image: Sylwia Bartyzel

Knowing how to start a fire is an essential survival skill in the wild. Whether for warmth, cooking, or signaling, having access to fire is crucial—one of humanity’s oldest and most reliable tools. Fortunately, you don’t need to rely on ancient methods like rubbing sticks or using flint and steel (though it doesn’t hurt to know them); modern tools make fire-starting much easier.

Carry at least two different fire-starting methods—a Bic lighter is a universal favorite, and stormproof matches are another reliable option. Additionally, bring dry tinder in a waterproof bag to help you start a fire even with wet wood. Always make sure to extinguish your fire completely when you’re done, as it can quickly become a danger to both you and the environment.

Image: Les Argonautes

In the wilderness, a warm meal is more than just something to look forward to—it’s the essential fuel you need to survive and keep moving. Even if you plan to catch fish or game for dinner, don’t rely solely on that. Also, resist the temptation to eat local fruits or seeds; it’s easy to misidentify plants, and many can be highly toxic.

Today, pre-packaged hiking meals are affordable and reliable for most situations. Estimate how many meals you’ll need and pack a bit extra. Always bring high-energy, non-perishable foods that can sustain you in an emergency. Nutrient-dense options like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars are ideal for long treks and unexpected delays.

Image: Joseph Corl

This is one of the most common mistakes many overconfident hikers make. We can’t stress this enough—always inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. Let a friend or family member know where you’re going. This way, if something goes wrong, rescuers will have a clear starting point and timeline to locate you.

Additionally, avoid venturing into unfamiliar areas alone. Even if you’re well-prepared, having a partner or friend with you provides extra safety—and it makes the experience more fun. After all, what’s an adventure if you can’t share it with someone you love?

Image: Jesse Gardner

Shelter is essential for protection against the elements and can be crucial for survival. While you might be tempted to leave a heavy tent behind in certain regions or seasons, it’s generally not advisable. Even on sunny days, you’ll need a place to retreat from the sun’s heat. A proper shelter shields you from hypothermia, insects, and other dangers, ensuring a safe and restful night.

Even a basic shelter can make a significant difference—carrying a rope and tarp can be sufficient to keep you dry and protected. Learning to build a shelter from natural materials is also a valuable skill for emergencies, but planning ahead can save you a lot of effort. Whether you’re using a tent, a tarp, or constructing a natural shelter, always choose a safe, level spot away from potential hazards like falling branches or rising water, and set up while there’s still plenty of daylight.

Image: Clay Banks

As any experienced hiker can tell you, layering is key when it comes to clothing in the wilderness. Start with synthetic "moisture-wicking" base layers to keep sweat off your skin, add a couple of insulating layers for warmth, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer to protect against the elements. This system will allow you to adjust your clothing as conditions change, keeping you comfortable and safe at all times.

Footwear is just as crucial. While traditional advice often emphasizes sturdy boots with good ankle support, the effectiveness of these boots in preventing sprains is still debated. Many hikers now opt for trail runners, which are lightweight, flexible, and often more comfortable over long distances. But ultimately, the choice between boots and trail runners depends on the terrain and conditions you’ll encounter. Whichever you choose, make sure your footwear is well broken in and paired with quality socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet in top condition.

Image: Maël BALLAND

In wildlife-rich areas, making noise is a smart strategy to avoid startling animals, which can prevent potentially dangerous encounters. Most animals prefer to steer clear of humans, so announcing your presence can help them avoid you. Bear bells, clapping, or shouting periodically are effective ways to keep wildlife at a safe distance. Some campers also set up trip-wire bear alarms around their campsites to deter any curious visitors.

Additionally, always store your food away from your sleeping area, and keep it tightly sealed to minimize scents that could attract animals. In bear country, although aggressive encounters are quite rare, it’s always wise to carry a last-resort defense like bear spray. Remember, you’re the one in their backyard, and respecting their space and taking precautions ensures that both you and the animals can coexist peacefully.