Scarlet Name Meaning

The name Scarlet is often thought to mean “red,” in reference to the color. However, the name’s meaning is actually not clear. Some sources suggest that it could be derived from the Old English word “scearlat,” meaning “bright red.” But it’s also possible that the name has no specific meaning and was simply chosen because it sounds pretty and evokes the image of the color scarlet.

Origins of the Name Scarlet

The color scarlet has been known since ancient times and was used for dyeing fabrics. The word “scarlet” comes from the Old French word “escarlate” which in turn comes from the Arabic word “siklāt” meaning “dyed in the grain.” The color scarlet is also mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the book of Isaiah, where it is described as a rich, luxurious color.

As for the name Scarlet, it first appeared as a given name in the 19th century. It’s thought to have been inspired by the color scarlet, as well as by the character of Scarlet O’Hara in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind.” The book and later film adaptation of the novel were hugely popular, and the name Scarlet became associated with the fiery, strong-willed character of O’Hara.

Popularity of the Name Scarlet

Since its appearance in the 19th century, the name Scarlet has seen a steady rise in popularity. It wasn’t until the release of the film adaptation of “Gone with the Wind” in 1939 that the name really took off. In 1940, the name Scarlet was the 757th most popular name for baby girls in the United States, but by 1941 it had jumped to the 470th most popular.

Since then, the name has remained a popular choice for parents, although its popularity has fluctuated over the years. In recent years, the name has seen a resurgence in popularity, with more and more baby girls being given the name each year. In 2021, Scarlet ranked #731 in the United States.

Final Thoughts on the Name Scarlet

Overall, the name Scarlet is a fiery, bold choice for a baby girl. It evokes images of passion, strength, and luxury. Whether or not it has a specific meaning, the name is sure to spark some interesting conversations and is sure to stand out in a crowd. So, if you’re looking for a name that’s a little bit different, a little bit daring, and a whole lot of fun, Scarlet might just be the perfect choice for your little lady.

In conclusion, Scarlet is a name that has a long history and evocative meaning. It’s a name that has stood the test of time, and continues to be a popular choice among parents. It’s fiery, bold and unique, and would make a great choice for your little girl. So, if you’re looking for a name that will make a lasting impression, Scarlet is definitely worth considering.

Infographic of Scarlet name meaning, which is Named after the deep shade of red, Scarlet is an English name.
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Scarlet Name Popularity

How popular is the name Scarlet? Here’s everything we know.

Year Rank # Births % Births
1910 0 0%
1911 0 0%
1912 0 0%
1913 0 0%
1914 0 0%
1915 0 0%
1916 0 0%
1917 0 0%
1918 0 0%
1919 0 0%
1920 0 0%
1921 0 0%
1922 0 0%
1923 0 0%
1924 0 0%
1925 0 0%
1926 0 0%
1927 0 0%
1928 0 0%
1929 0 0%
1930 0 0%
1931 0 0%
1932 0 0%
1933 0 0%
1934 0 0%
1935 0 0%
1936 0 0%
1937 0 0%
1938 0 0%
1939 0 0%
1940 0 0%
1941 1,619 5 0.0004%
1942 0 0%
1943 1,771 5 0.0004%
1944 0 0%
1945 0 0%
1946 0 0%
1947 0 0%
1948 0 0%
1949 0 0%
1950 1,779 5 0.0003%
1951 1,894 5 0.0003%
1952 0 0%
1953 0 0%
1954 2,097 5 0.0003%
1955 1,909 6 0.0003%
1956 1,660 11 0.0006%
1957 0 0%
1958 2,027 6 0.0003%
1959 2,095 5 0.0003%
1960 2,084 6 0.0003%
1961 1,496 20 0.0011%
1962 1,216 38 0.0021%
1963 1,253 35 0.0019%
1964 1,823 11 0.0006%
1965 1,574 16 0.001%
1966 1,872 10 0.0006%
1967 1,644 15 0.001%
1968 1,931 10 0.0007%
1969 1,987 10 0.0006%
1970 1,663 20 0.0013%
1971 1,744 17 0.0011%
1972 1,591 21 0.0015%
1973 1,734 17 0.0013%
1974 2,185 7 0.0005%
1975 0 0%
1976 1,623 22 0.0017%
1977 1,633 24 0.0018%
1978 2,478 6 0.0004%
1979 2,286 10 0.0007%
1980 2,259 11 0.0008%
1981 1,735 24 0.0016%
1982 2,382 11 0.0007%
1983 2,217 12 0.0008%
1984 2,671 7 0.0005%
1985 1,660 29 0.0019%
1986 2,079 17 0.0011%
1987 2,591 10 0.0007%
1988 3,086 6 0.0004%
1989 2,495 14 0.0009%
1990 2,265 19 0.0011%
1991 2,987 9 0.0006%
1992 2,941 10 0.0006%
1993 1,556 52 0.0033%
1994 1,772 38 0.0025%
1995 1,715 39 0.0026%
1996 2,075 25 0.0017%
1997 1,969 29 0.002%
1998 1,711 44 0.0029%
1999 1,953 32 0.0021%
2000 1,856 41 0.0027%
2001 1,414 78 0.0052%
2002 1,185 116 0.0077%
2003 1,251 109 0.0072%
2004 1,324 99 0.0065%
2005 1,145 149 0.0097%
2006 860 260 0.0166%
2007 703 369 0.0234%
2008 614 454 0.0294%
2009 592 461 0.0308%
2010 412 719 0.0499%
2011 364 833 0.0585%
2012 388 752 0.0528%
2013 362 815 0.0572%
2014 386 800 0.0549%
2015 365 843 0.0579%
2016 365 838 0.0581%
2017 380 757 0.0542%
2018 388 724 0.0527%
2019 359 805 0.0595%
2020 440 650 0.0511%
2021 444 618 0.0506%
2022 429 703 0.0533%

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Data via SSA.gov.


Names Like Scarlet

If you like Scarlet, you’ll love these other names like Scarlet.


What names sound like Scarlet?

If you like how Scarlet sounds, you might also like these names that sound like Scarlet.

Name Meaning Origin Popularity Other Gender
Scarletta

Red

French

Scarlette

Red

French


What names are similar to Scarlet?

Find a name that’s like Scarlet, but just a little bit different.

Name Meaning Origin Popularity Other Gender
Carleta

Free man

German

Searlait

Free man

German

Starletta

Star

English

Starlette

Star

English


Lists With Scarlet

Find inspiration in these baby girl name lists featuring the name Scarlet.


Siblings of Scarlet

Mamas with kids named Scarlet also have kids with these names.

Name Meaning Origin Popularity Other Gender
Starley

Star Meadow

English

4 Comments

  1. .

  2. My husbands favorite actress is Scarlett Johansson and it was one of the only names we could agree on that we both liked!

  3. Classic

  4. Scarlet Grace was named after the blood Jesus shed for us and Ephesians 2:8 says “for by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God”


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