ungefärbt

Ungefärbt is a German adjective meaning not dyed or undyed, describing substances that have not received artificial coloration. The term is formed with the prefix un- and färbt (from färben, to dye). It is used in contexts such as textiles, fur, hair, and other materials to indicate the absence of dyeing.

In textiles and fibers, ungefärbt refers to fabrics that have not been color-treated. The natural color of undyed fibers depends on the material: cotton and linen are often pale to light beige after minimal processing; wool and silk can range from white to cream or light brown, influenced by breed and processing. Undyed fabrics are commonly marketed as natural or naturfarben and may attract buyers seeking minimal processing or environmental considerations. They often require different care and can be more prone to staining or color transfer.

In other contexts, ungefärbt can describe hair or fur that has not been dyed, indicating a natural color. In cosmetics, art, or photography, the term may denote materials or outputs that remain uncolored or unmodified by dyes.

Limitations and considerations include limited availability in fashion markets, potential for hue variation between batches, and sensitivity to light or washing that can alter appearance. If uniform lightening or whitening is performed, the material is typically no longer considered ungefärbt.

See also naturfarben, uncolored, undyed.