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 has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. Between 1937 and 1949, there were fewer than 65 births per year with the name Scarlett. However, starting in 1955, the number of births began to rise steadily, reaching triple digits for the first time in 1961 with 114 births.
The popularity of the name Scarlett continued to grow throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with over 100 births per year. In 1992, there were 204 births, marking a significant increase from previous years. This trend continued into the new millennium, with over 538 births in 2004.
The peak of popularity for the name Scarlett occurred between 2006 and 2016, with over 7,000 births per year each year except for 2009. In 2015, there were a record-breaking 7,140 births with the name Scarlett, and in 2016, there were 7,715 births.
While the popularity of the name Scarlett has slightly decreased since its peak in 2016, it remains one of the most popular names in the United States. In 2021, there were 6,625 births with the name Scarlett, and in 2023, there were 6,288 births.
Overall, the name Scarlett has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, with over 100,000 babies named Scarlett since records began. This trend shows no signs of slowing down, as the name continues to be a popular choice among parents today.