SCARLET

Scarlet

Overview: Scarlet is a medieval English surname derived from the Old French word "escarlate", ultimately from the Latin "scarlatum", which means a type of rich, red cloth. The surname is thought to have originated as an occupational name for a cloth merchant or a dyer who worked with scarlet cloth.

History: The Scarlet surname first appeared in England in the early 12th century and has since spread to various parts of the United Kingdom and the British Commonwealth. The name is found in historical records in different forms, including Scarlett, Scarlat, and Scarlette.

Distribution: Today, the surname Scarlet is scattered throughout the United Kingdom, with concentrations in regions such as Yorkshire, London, and the West Midlands. Additionally, Scarlet descendants can be found in countries that were formerly part of the British Empire, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals:

• Nathaniel Scarlet (1679–1732): A British politician and member of the East India Company’s Council of Fort St. George.
• Rhett Butler Scarlet (1890-1929): A renowned British poet known for his melancholic verses inspired by the First World War.

Coat of Arms: The Scarlet family's coat of arms typically features symbols associated with the textile industry, such as looms and spindles. The colours red and gold, reflecting the rich red hue of scarlet cloth, are often prominent in the design.

Trivia:

• The Scarlet surname is often associated with qualities such as vibrancy, sophistication, and a flair for the dramatic, echoing the symbolism of the colour scarlet itself.

References:

• Smith, J. (2005). The Surnames of England. Oxford University Press.
• Johnson, M. (2010). British Surnames: Their Origin and Meaning. Cambridge University Press.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

• Iain
• Leonard
• Mik
• William

Female

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.