The word scarlet derives from the Persian "saqirlat" — a type of luxury cloth. In medieval Europe, it referred to the finest woollen cloth dyed with kermes, only later becoming a specific colour term. The vivid orange-red of scarlet was associated with wealth and military power throughout history.

Urgent, bold, and theatrical. Scarlet commands attention — it is the red of warning, excitement, and spectacle. More extroverted than crimson, it lacks the depth of burgundy. It is the colour of showmanship and declaration.

The scarlet letter in Hawthorne's novel became a symbol of public shame. Scarlet is the colour of the British military uniform ("Redcoats"). In many traditions, scarlet robes denote high ecclesiastical rank. It is also the colour of Santa Claus, fire engines, and phone boxes — objects designed to be immediately visible.