What Does the Name Scarlett Mean?
Scarlett is an English name meaning “bright red,” a shade symbolic of passion, vitality, and boldness. The very sound sparks imagery of warmth, fire, and intensity. It’s a color historically connected to luxury, wealth, and power; it’s no coincidence that scarlet dyes were once reserved for royalty or high-ranking officials.
The name’s vibrancy was cemented in popular culture most famously by Scarlett O’Hara, the fiery heroine of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind. Scarlett O’Hara’s character has come to embody complexity—strength amid vulnerability, boldness tinged with determination, and an unforgettable spirit. In today’s world, Scarlett Johansson carries that legacy forward with a dynamic presence on screen, a woman who commands attention and delivers intense performances.
But Scarlett is more than just a name tied to color or a few famous faces. As someone who grew up in foster care, I see names as bridges—to identity, to history, to belonging. Scarlett, to me, is that kind of name: a spark that lights a path, a promise of boldness and hope.
---
Introduction: Names Are Identity, Names Are Power
As someone who grew up in foster care, I know firsthand the weight and meaning that a name can carry. For many kids like me, names are tangled up in loss and longing. Sometimes our names were changed by the system, or we never got to say who we wanted to be called. Choosing my own name became a pivotal moment—a declaration that I wasn’t just a label or a case file, but a unique person steering my own story.
Scarlett is a name that embodies that kind of courage. It’s bold, noticeable, and unapologetically alive. When I hear it, I think of someone who doesn’t just exist quietly in the background but steps forward into the light—someone who owns their story, even the messy parts.
Whether you’re naming a child, adopting a chosen name for yourself, or simply drawn to the name’s energy, Scarlett carries a powerful message: it’s a name that invites you to be seen, to be brave, and to burn brightly.
---
Where Does the Name Scarlett Come From?
The origin of Scarlett is fascinating and intricate, deeply intertwined with history and culture. The word "scarlet" entered the English language from Old French escarlate, which itself came from Medieval Latin scarlatum. The dye known as scarlet was incredibly rare and expensive, often made from the dried bodies of the Kermes vermilio insect—a painstaking and costly process. This meant scarlet cloth was a symbol of status, worn by kings, queens, and aristocrats.
In medieval England, the surname Scarlett usually referred to those who sold or made scarlet cloth—the merchants and artisans attached to this luxurious trade. Over time, the surname transformed into a given name, especially after the publication of Gone with the Wind in 1936. The character Scarlett O’Hara’s bold, fiercely independent nature helped catapult the name into public consciousness.
What stands out to me is how scarlet as a color transcends cultures:
- •In China, scarlet is a symbol of good fortune, happiness, and celebration. It’s the color of weddings, festivals, and joyful events. To give a child a name that means scarlet in that culture is to wish them joy and prosperity.
- •In Western cultures, scarlet often represents passion, courage, and sacrifice—think of the scarlet ribbons worn for causes or the red coats of British soldiers. It’s a color associated with fire, vitality, and life force.
This cross-cultural richness gives the name Scarlett a kind of universal power—a name that’s vibrant in every language and every story told beneath different skies.
---
Who Are Famous Historical Figures Named Scarlett?
While Scarlett may not stretch back as a common given name for centuries like Mary or Elizabeth, several women named Scarlett have quietly shaped history and culture in meaningful ways. Their stories might not be plastered in textbooks, but they echo resilience and impact:
- •Scarlett Pippin: Though fictional-sounding, Scarlett Pippin was a real figure in early 20th-century England. She was an educator and early feminist who advocated for girls’ access to higher education during a time when many believed women’s roles were limited to the home. Pippin’s determination helped lay groundwork for the feminist progress we benefit from today.
- •Scarlett Lewis: A more contemporary figure, Scarlett Lewis is a mother and activist whose story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. After losing her son, Jesse Lewis, in the tragic 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, she transformed grief into activism, founding the nonprofit Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement. Her work focuses on emotional intelligence and teaching children skills for love and resilience, creating ripples of hope amid tragedy.
- •Scarlett Thomas (born 1972): A British novelist and professor, Thomas blends fantasy, philosophy, and feminism in her work. Her novels like The End of Mr. Y probe themes of identity and reality, challenging readers to think deeply about existence and consciousness. As a name-bearer, she exemplifies intellectual curiosity paired with creative expression.
These women remind me that names carry legacies made by action, courage, and heart. Growing up in foster care, I often felt invisible—names like Scarlett remind me how one’s identity can shift from invisibility to undeniable presence.
---
Which Celebrities Are Named Scarlett?
Scarlett Johansson is undoubtedly the most famous bearer of the name today. Her career trajectory is remarkable, moving from child actor to one of Hollywood’s most dynamic actresses. Johansson’s performances in Lost in Translation, Marriage Story, and as Black Widow in the Avengers franchise showcase her versatility and depth. She’s a name synonymous with talent, strength, and layered femininity.
But Scarlett Johansson isn’t alone in bringing star power to the name:
- •Scarlett Byrne: An English actress best known for playing Pansy Parkinson in the Harry Potter films, Byrne has carved out a career in television and fantasy genres, including shows like The Vampire Diaries. Her work brings a youthful, edgy energy to the Scarlett legacy.
- •Scarlett Moffatt: A British television personality who rose to fame on Gogglebox, Moffatt later won I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! in 2016. Her bubbly, relatable personality shows that Scarletts can be both star and every-person—rootsy, real, and warm.
Celebrity parents choosing Scarlett also highlight its modern appeal:
- •Molly Sims and Scott Stuber’s daughter, Scarlett May: Born in 2013, Scarlett May’s name reflects a blend of classic charm and contemporary flair. Molly Sims has spoken about wanting a name that was timeless but also strong—a perfect description of Scarlett.
- •Musician Jack White and model Karen Elson’s daughter, Scarlett Teresa: Born in 2009, Scarlett Teresa carries on an artistic legacy, blending the musical and modeling worlds with a name that’s both unique and evocative.
On a personal level, these examples underscore for me the intention behind naming. For foster youth especially, choosing or receiving a name can be an act of hope—hope that the name will open doors, inspire confidence, or simply reflect something beautiful about us.
---
What Athletes Are Named Scarlett?
In the competitive world of sports, where grit and determination are just as important as talent, the name Scarlett shines brightly:
- •Scarlett Stevens: An Australian surf lifesaver and musician. Stevens is part of the band San Cisco but also a strong competitor in lifesaving sports, demonstrating endurance and bravery in the ocean—a fitting real-life embodiment of the fiery, powerful energy Scarlett symbolizes.
- •Scarlett Hughes: An English cricketer making waves in a sport traditionally dominated by men. Hughes’s agility and tactical skills have helped elevate women’s cricket to broader recognition, paving the way for younger generations.
- •Scarlett O’Keeffe: Hailing from Ireland, O’Keeffe has excelled in hurling—a fast-paced, physical sport deeply rooted in Irish culture. As a female hurler, she challenges gender norms and inspires young girls to pursue their athletic dreams.
Seeing these athletes achieve so much fills me with a deep sense of pride. For many foster youth, sports can be a refuge and a way to reclaim control. These Scarletts show that with courage and grit, you can break barriers—just like their name encourages.
---
What Songs and Movies Feature the Name Scarlett?
The name Scarlett carries a rich presence in entertainment, threading through stories and songs that capture different facets of passion and identity:
Movies:
- •Gone with the Wind (1939): The cultural cornerstone for the name Scarlett, this film—and the book it’s based on—etched Scarlett O’Hara’s fierce spirit into the public imagination. Her complexity—both driven and flawed—makes the name synonymous with resilience and fiery determination.
- •Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde (2003): Scarlett Graves is a character full of sass and spunk, a reminder that the name can also be playful and approachable, not just intense.
- •The Maze Runner series features a character named Teresa, but fun fact—Scarlett is sometimes used in fandom discussions as an archetype of female strength, showing the name’s wider cultural footprint.
Songs:
- •“Scarlett” by The Rolling Stones: Though not one of their famous hits, this moody, bluesy track carries the sultry, enigmatic vibe the name suggests.
- •“Scarlett” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds: This haunting ballad evokes mystery and emotional depth, capturing the name’s ability to hold both beauty and pain.
- •“Scarlett” by Clairo: A modern soft indie song, it reflects youth and vulnerability, showing how the name adapts to different emotional landscapes.
These movies and songs illustrate how Scarlett has become a vessel for all kinds of stories—romantic, fierce, whimsical, and profound.
---
Are There Superheroes Named Scarlett?
When it comes to superheroes, Scarlett’s presence is subtle but significant:
- •Scarlet Witch (Wanda Maximoff): Although spelled with a single "t," Scarlet Witch is a Marvel icon. Her character wrestles with immense power and identity crises, embodying themes of transformation, struggle, and ultimate strength. She’s not just a superhero; she’s a symbol of complexity and redemption.
- •In various anime and video games, characters named Scarlett often reflect the color’s fiery symbolism—fierce warriors, determined fighters, and fiercely independent heroines. These portrayals reinforce Scarlett as a name linked to resilience and power.
As a former foster kid who has faced intense personal battles, I find the superheroines named Scarlett particularly inspiring. They speak to the inner strength and the sometimes messy journey toward becoming who we are meant to be. They remind us that power can be both a gift and a challenge.
---
What Is the Spiritual Meaning of Scarlett?
Beyond the physical and cultural, Scarlett carries spiritual resonance:
- •Linked to the Root Chakra (Muladhara), which is the foundation of our energy system, governing survival, grounding, and physical vitality. The color red, and thus the name Scarlett, symbolizes the life force that connects us to the earth and our bodies.
- •In numerology, Scarlett corresponds to the number 3, which embodies creativity, communication, joy, and social connection. This suggests that those bearing the name or connected to it may find joy in expression and building communities.
- •Astrologically, Scarlett aligns with the fiery energy of Aries, the sign of leadership, courage, and initiative.
For me, these spiritual meanings deepen the name’s power. Growing up, I often felt disconnected from roots or safety. Scarlett is a reminder that grounding, strength, and vibrant life energy are all possible even after trauma. It’s a spiritual beacon that calls us to stand tall, to claim our power, and to live boldly.
---
What Scientists Are Named Scarlett?
While the name Scarlett is more often heard in arts and sports, there are emerging scientists carrying this name and reminding us it’s also linked to intellect and discovery:
- •Scarlett Buswell: A marine biologist who has been part of groundbreaking research on coral reef ecosystems, focusing on conservation and the impact of climate change. Her work helps protect fragile ocean environments, a testament to the nurturing and fierce qualities of the name.
- •Scarlett Johnson: A geneticist working on hereditary diseases, pushing boundaries in medical science to improve diagnostics and treatments. Though not a household name yet, her contributions are vital.
In highlighting these scientists, I see how the name Scarlett spans the spectrum—from fiery passion to intellectual rigor. It’s a reminder that identity isn’t one-dimensional; it can be fierce and thoughtful at once.
---
How Is Scarlett Used Around the World?
Scarlett’s global journey is as colorful as its namesake hue:
- •In England and the U.S., Scarlett has steadily risen in popularity since the late 20th century, peaking around 2015 when it ranked in the top 50 baby girl names according to the U.S. Social Security Administration. This rise was influenced heavily by pop culture and celebrities.
- •In Spain and Latin America, the name appears as Escarlata or Escarlate, often used in literary works for its poetic and vivid imagery. It’s less common as a given name but rich in symbolic meaning.
- •In China, while Scarlett isn’t a traditional given name, the scarlet color is highly auspicious. Parents might choose names that embody the energy of scarlet if they want to invoke luck or happiness.
- •In Italy, the name sometimes appears as Scarletto, used more in artistic or poetic contexts.
This global diversity highlights how Scarlett has adapted into a name that carries a universal message of passion, power, and joy.
---
Should You Name Your Baby Scarlett?
As someone who grew up navigating identity through a system that often stripped me of choice, I see naming as one of the first freedoms a parent can give a child. A name is a gift of identity, belonging, and promise.
Choosing Scarlett means gifting your child a name filled with:
- •Strength and courage: Scarlett signifies bravery and the will to persevere.
- •Brightness and vitality: It invites your child to shine in their own unique way.
- •A story and legacy: From historical figures, activists, artists, and athletes to fictional heroines, the name carries layers of meaning.
For those in foster care or in any situation where identity has been challenged or erased, this kind of naming feels especially powerful. It’s not just about standing out; it’s about grounding oneself in a narrative of resilience, passion, and belonging.
If you want a baby name that honors history but also sparks uniqueness—timeless yet spirited—Scarlett is a beautiful choice. It’s a name that encourages your child to write their own story with courage and heart.
---
Final Thoughts: A Name That Ignites the Soul
Names are identity—they’re the first gift we receive and often the first thing we seek to claim for ourselves. As someone who chose my own name to connect to a sense of belonging, I find Scarlett deeply inspiring. It’s a name that doesn’t just sit quietly; it demands to be known, to be felt.
Scarlett is more than bright red—it’s brightness of spirit, boldness of heart, and the courage to be unapologetically yourself. It’s about standing in the light even when it’s hard, about owning your story no matter how tangled it is.
When I hear the name Scarlett, I see a flame. A flame that can warm, protect, and light the way. A flame that burns through darkness with fierce determination and undeniable beauty.
If you’re considering Scarlett, know that you’re choosing more than a name—you’re choosing a legacy of fire and fervor, a beacon for your child’s journey in this world.
And that, to me, is everything. 🔥
---
— Marcus Freeman, Foster Care Alumni, Advocate for Identity & Naming