Scarlett is a feminine given name of American origin. It was first brought into prominence by Margaret Mitchell's novel "Gone with the Wind," published in 1936. The protagonist of this novel, Scarlett O'Hara, has made the name synonymous with Southern charm and elegance.
The name Scarlett is believed to have been derived from the English word 'scarlet,' which refers to a deep red color. However, its exact origin and meaning are somewhat unclear, as there is no direct equivalent in other languages or cultures. Some believe it could be a variant of Scarletta, an Italian pet form ofScarletina, itself a diminutive of Scarlettia. Others suggest it might have been inspired by the scarlet pimpernel flower.
Despite its uncertain origins, Scarlett has become quite popular as a given name in recent years, especially in English-speaking countries. It first appeared on the United States Social Security Administration's list of most popular baby names in 1995 and has since climbed steadily up the rankings, reaching number 306 by 2018.
Scarlett is often associated with strength, beauty, and uniqueness due to its literary connection with Margaret Mitchell's heroine. However, it is important to note that there are no specific traits or characteristics universally attributed to individuals named Scarlett beyond these associations. Each person carries their own personality, independent of their name.
In conclusion, while the origin and meaning of the name Scarlett may not be entirely clear, its rise in popularity can largely be credited to its association with Margaret Mitchell's novel "Gone with the Wind." Today, it stands as a unique and elegant choice for parents naming their daughters.
The name Scarlett experienced significant growth in popularity from the late 1990s to the early 2010s, with a peak of 7715 births in 2016 and another peak of 7250 births in 2022. However, there was a decline in recent years, with 6288 births recorded in 2023. Overall, the name Scarlett has been used for a total of 100055 babies from 1937 to 2023.