scarlet

Scarlet is a bright red color with a pronounced orange tint. In color naming, it is closer to vermilion than to maroon, and it sits between red and orange on the spectrum. The term is often used to describe vivid, saturated reds distinct from deeper crimson or more orange-tinted scarlet variants.

The word scarlet comes from Old French escarlate, Medieval Latin scarlata; the ultimate origin is uncertain, with some theories linking it to Persian or Arabic terms for red dyes. Historically, scarlet referred both to the color and to fabrics dyed with expensive crimson dyes such as kermes vermilio and later cochineal. Scarlet cloth signified wealth and status in medieval and early modern Europe and was reserved for certain ceremonial garments.

In Western symbolism, scarlet has been associated with passion, courage, and sin; ecclesiastical dress: cardinals wear scarlet; The Scarlet Letter by Hawthorne uses scarlet to symbolize sin and social judgment. In heraldry, scarlet is a shade of red (gules). In biology and nature, many animals and flowers are described as scarlet.

In modern usage, scarlet remains a common descriptive term for bright red fabrics, inks, and digital colors. It is used in branding and sports team names; its strong visual impact makes it a frequent choice for warning signs and uniforms. Digital representations vary, so exact shade depends on the color space.