Scarlet: meaning, definitions and examples

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scarlet

 

[ ˈskɑːrlət ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

color

of a brilliant red color.

Synonyms

crimson, red, ruby, vermilion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scarlet

Typically used to describe a bright red color with a slightly orange tint. Suitable for describing fabrics, flowers, or vibrant lipstick.

  • She wore a scarlet dress to the gala
  • The flowers bloomed in a brilliant scarlet hue
red

A broad term for the primary color at the end of the visible spectrum. Can be used in various contexts including emotions, warning signs, and everyday objects.

  • She painted her nails red
  • The stop sign at the intersection was bright red
crimson

Refers to a deep, rich red color with a hint of purple. Often used in literature and art to describe emotions, like passion or anger, or items like roses and velvet.

  • His face turned crimson with embarrassment
  • The crimson velvet curtains added a touch of elegance to the room
ruby

Often used to describe a deep red color similar to that of the gemstone. Suitable for describing precious stones, luxury items, or rich, elegant clothing.

  • She gifted him a ring with a stunning ruby
  • The king wore a robe adorned with ruby accents
vermilion

Specifies a bright red or reddish-orange color. Commonly used in artistic contexts to describe pigments, paints, or decorations.

  • The artist mixed vermilion to get the perfect shade for the sunset
  • The vermilion dragon was a symbol of power in the ancient painting

Examples of usage

  • a scarlet dress
  • scarlet lipstick
Context #2 | Noun

person

a woman who wears scarlet clothing.

Synonyms

femme fatale, seductress, temptress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scarlet

Typically used to describe a bright red color. It can be used in various contexts, including fashion, nature, and design.

  • She wore a stunning scarlet dress to the gala.
  • The sky turned a beautiful shade of scarlet at sunset.
femme fatale

Refers to a mysterious and dangerously seductive woman, often portrayed in literature and film. This term suggests intrigue and potential danger.

  • The character in the novel was a classic femme fatale who manipulated everyone around her.
  • In the movie, she played the role of a femme fatale perfectly, leaving a trail of broken hearts.
seductress

Describes a woman who is highly attractive and often uses her charm to seduce others. This term can have a negative connotation, implying manipulation.

  • She was known as a seductress, always capturing the attention of everyone in the room.
  • His downfall was inevitable after he fell for the seductress.
temptress

A woman who tempts someone to do something, often viewed as morally wrong. This term carries a negative connotation relating to leading others into temptation.

  • The story described her as a temptress who lured the hero away from his path.
  • Many believed she was a temptress, always leading men astray.

Examples of usage

  • She stood out in the crowd as the scarlet of the evening.

Translations

Translations of the word "scarlet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escarlate

🇮🇳 गुलाबी लाल

🇩🇪 scharlachrot

🇮🇩 merah padam

🇺🇦 червоний

🇵🇱 szkarłatny

🇯🇵 緋色 (ひいろ)

🇫🇷 écarlate

🇪🇸 escarlata

🇹🇷 al

🇰🇷 주홍색

🇸🇦 قرمزي

🇨🇿 šarlatový

🇸🇰 šarlátový

🇨🇳 猩红色 (xīnghóngsè)

🇸🇮 škrlatna

🇮🇸 skarlat

🇰🇿 қызыл

🇬🇪 შარლატისფერი

🇦🇿 al

🇲🇽 escarlata

Etymology

The word 'scarlet' originated from the Middle English 'scarlat', from the Old French 'escarlate', and from the Latin 'scarlatum'. The color scarlet has been associated with wealth, power, and luxury throughout history, often worn by royalty and nobility. Its vivid hue makes it a symbol of passion and romance.

See also: scar, scarce, scarred, unscarred.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,184 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.