An Australian slang term for a redhead; also refers to a blue-colored blanket or bedroll, or a fighting challenge.
From English 'blue' plus the diminutive suffix '-ey.' The term emerged in Australian English, possibly because redheads often get called the opposite of their hair color as a nickname (like calling someone 'Shorty').
Bluey is a perfect example of how Australian English developed unique slang—isolated communities invented their own words, and 'bluey' (meaning a redhead) is the kind of nickname that only makes sense if you understand Australian humor and irony.
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