What does Scarlet mean and where does it come from?
Scarlet is derived from the Middle English word 'scarlat', which referred to a rich, luxurious fabric of a vibrant red color. The name has been used since the 19th century and carries associations of beauty, passion, and intensity. It may also evoke historical contexts, such as the Scarlet Letter by
Cultural significance
Scarlet has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright red color.
Peak popularity
Reached #370 in 2013 — currently #510 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Scarlet?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Scarlet?
Scarlet works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Scarlet Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Scarlet Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Scarlet Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Scarlet Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Scarlet Maeve
One syllable · timeless choice
Scarlet Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Scarlet right now?
Declining — down 20 spots — currently #510 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #510 | 581 | ▼ down 20 · -7% births |
| 2024 | #490 | 624 | ▼ down 26 · -6% births |
| 2023 | #464 | 663 | ▼ down 32 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #432 | 724 | ▲ up 16 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #448 | 698 | ▼ down 2 · +2% births |
| 2020 | #446 | 682 | ▼ down 71 · -22% births |
| 2015 | #375 | 869 | ▲ up 39 · +14% births |
| 2010 | #414 | 762 | ▲ up 694 · +256% births |
| 2005 | #1108 | 214 | ▲ up 641 · +114% births |
| 2000 | #1749 | 100 | ▲ up 32 · +23% births |
| 1995 | #1781 | 81 | ▲ up 601 · +56% births |
| 1990 | #2382 | 52 | ▼ down 264 · +4% births |
| 1985 | #2118 | 50 | ▼ down 14 · +2% births |
| 1980 | #2104 | 49 | ▼ down 64 · +14% births |
| 1975 | #2040 | 43 | — |
The story of Scarlet
Scarlet entered American naming records in 1939 and has been in use for over 85 years. A total of 14,389 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2108 in 1940 to #464 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Scarlet in 2013:
Scarlet by decade
Scarlet peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 6 | |
| 1940s | 216 | |
| 1950s | 348 | |
| 1960s | 609 | |
| 1970s | 535 | |
| 1980s | 493 | |
| 1990s | 704 | |
| 2000s | 2,613 | |
| 2010s ★ | 8,183 | |
| 2020s | 1,887 | |
What are good nicknames for Scarlet?
What names sound and feel like Scarlet?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Scarlet also consider these
How is Scarlet written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Scarlet
What does the name Scarlet mean?
Scarlet means "Bright red color" — a name rooted in English tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Scarlet?
Scarlet is currently ranked #464 in the United States as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Scarlet?
Scarlet originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Scarlet?
Scarlet is a two-syllable name pronounced SKAH-rlut. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What are good nicknames for Scarlet?
Scarlet naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.