Scarlett

Girl Name
Pronunciation:/ˈskɑːrlɪt/

Scarlett: a female name of Old Persian origin meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet". It derives from the Old Persian word "SAQERLâT > SCARLATUM > ESCARLATE".

Scarlett has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Old Persian roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Scarlett

Quick facts about Scarlett
OriginOld Persian
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

SAQERLâT > SCARLATUM > ESCARLATE

How to Pronounce Scarlett

Scarlett is pronounced /ˈskɑːrlɪt/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Sca-rle-tt
  2. Say it like: "SKAHRLEEHT"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Scarlett enjoys international appeal, used in 9 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, norwegian, irish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishnorwegianirishswedishdanishfinnishgermanscottishwelsh
Frequently Asked Questions About Scarlett
What does the name Scarlett mean?
Scarlett means "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name.". The name comes from SAQERLâT > SCARLATUM > ESCARLATE. In its original form, the name derives from saqerlât (سقرلات). This old persian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Scarlett for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Scarlett's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like COLORS (RED), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Scarlett?
Scarlett is a old persian name. The name traces back to SAQERLâT > SCARLATUM > ESCARLATE. The original form saqerlât (سقرلات) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its old persian roots, Scarlett spread to become common in english, norwegian, irish, swedish and other cultures. The old persian meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Scarlett a boy or girl name?
Scarlett is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old persian tradition, Scarlett has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Scarlett?
Scarlett is pronounced "/ˈskɑːrlɪt/". This pronunciation follows pe language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Scarlett is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, norwegian, irish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with old persian names, listening to a native speaker say Scarlett can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root SAQERLâT > SCARLATUM > ESCARLATE influences how Scarlett sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Scarlett?
Scarlett is moderately popular with steady usage. With moderate popularity, Scarlett offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Scarlett's popularity may vary between old persian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Scarlett holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Scarlett commonly used?
Scarlett spans multiple cultures, including english, norwegian, irish, and 6 other traditions. Though old persian in origin, Scarlett found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Scarlett, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Scarlett into their naming traditions. A child named Scarlett will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Scarlett is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Scarlett?
Scarlett carries associations with COLORS (RED). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian “saqerlât” (Medieval Latin: Scarlatum; Arabic: siklāt), meaning “scarlet.” This name is a feminine given name derived from an English surname with an occupational meaning. It refers to a person who sold cloth of scarlet (Scarlet was a delicate and expensive woolen cloth ordinary in Medieval England). Scarlett O’ Hara is the protagonist in Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and in the later film of the same name." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In old persian culture, where Scarlett originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Scarlett sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Scarlett often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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