schwarz

Schwarz is the German word for the color black. It derives from Old High German swarz and is cognate with Dutch zwart and other Germanic forms, all tracing back to a Proto-Germanic root for the color. In German, Schwarz functions as both a color term and a component in many compound words, phrases, and names.

As a surname, Schwarz is common in German-speaking countries and among people of German ancestry. Notable individuals include Karl Schwarzschild (1873–1916), a German physicist whose work yielded the Schwarzschild solution in general relativity. The surname also appears in various toponyms and in the names of organizations and brands.

The Schwarz Gruppe is a major German retail company founded by Dieter Schwarz. It operates Lidl and Kaufland and, by revenue and global footprint, ranks among the largest retailers in the world. The group supports numerous market formats across Europe and beyond.

In usage, Schwarz appears widely in German-language contexts as the word for black. It is used in everyday language, branding, and culture, appearing in terms such as Schwarzmarkt (black market) and Schwarzweiß (black and white), among others. The term also features in heraldry and design as a basic color descriptor.