First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
1scarlet
noun scar·let \ˈskär-lət\
: a bright red color
Full Definition of SCARLET
1
: scarlet cloth or clothes
2
: any of various bright reds
See scarlet defined for English-language learners
See scarlet defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of SCARLET
Middle English scarlat, scarlet, from Anglo-French escarlet, from Medieval Latin scarlata, from Persian saqalāt, a kind of rich cloth
2scarlet
adjective
Definition of SCARLET
1
: of the color scarlet
2
a : grossly and glaringly offensive <sinning in flagrant and scarlet fashion — G. W. Johnson> b [from the use of the word in Isa 1:18 & Rev 17:1–6(Authorized Version)] : of, characterized by, or associated with sexual immorality <a scarlet woman>
First Known Use of SCARLET
14th century
SCARLET Defined for Kids
1scarlet
noun scar·let \ˈskär-lət\
Definition of SCARLET for Kids
: a bright red
2scarlet
adjective
Definition of SCARLET for Kids
: colored bright red
Learn More About SCARLET
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: scarlet admiralPrevious Word in the Dictionary: scarlatinoidAll Words Near: scarlet
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up scarlet? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).