If you want a name inspired by this beautiful meeting of colours, here are 10 baby names inspired by rainbows and their colours. A rainbow is nature’s way of adding a little colour to an otherwise grey sky. Appearing just when the rain begins to clear, its bright bands of colour can turn an ordinary afternoon into something magical. In much the same way, a baby brings a streak of happiness into the everyday, filling familiar routines with new meaning.
Iris is a feminine name of Greek origin, meaning ‘rainbow’. In Greek mythology, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow and a messenger who travelled between heaven and Earth. The name is also associated with the colourful iris flower. With its connection to both mythology and nature, Iris is a lovely choice for a little girl. Indigo is a gender-neutral name inspired by the deep blue-violet colour found between blue and violet in the rainbow. Rich and distinctive, Indigo is a lovely choice for parents who want something a little unique. Violet is a feminine name inspired by the delicate purple flower and its distinctive colour. The name comes from the Latin viola, meaning ‘violet’. It has been used as a given name for generations and carries a gentle, vintage charm. Its place among the colours of the rainbow makes it particularly fitting for this list.
The name comes from the Greek indikon, meaning ‘Indian’, referring to the dye that was historically sourced from India.
Scarlett is a feminine name derived from the word ‘scarlet’, a rich, vivid shade of red. The word originally referred to a luxurious cloth, often dyed in bright colours, before becoming associated specifically with the colour. Scarlett has a bold, spirited quality and is a lovely choice for parents drawn to warm, striking shades. Crimson is a gender-neutral colour-inspired name drawn from the deep, rich shade of red. The word traces its roots to the Arabic qirmizi, referring to a red dye made from insects, which travelled into European languages through trade. Dramatic, Crimson is a striking choice for parents who love bold colours. Amber is a feminine name inspired by the golden-yellow fossilised resin formed from ancient trees. Its warm honey-like colour has made it a popular gemstone and jewellery material for centuries. The name is also associated with warmth, sunlight and autumn hues. Familiar yet distinctive, Amber has a lovely natural quality. Midori is a Japanese feminine name meaning ‘green’. It is also the Japanese word for the colour itself, which is associated with fresh leaves, plants and the natural world. For parents who love the calming shades of a forest or the freshness of new growth, Midori is a beautiful choice with a direct connection to colour. Ahmar is an Arabic masculine name meaning ‘red’. The word is used to describe the colour and can also refer to something reddish in appearance. Ahmar is a distinctive name which retains a clear cultural and linguistic connection to one of the rainbow’s brightest shades. Marigold is a feminine name inspired by the cheerful golden-orange flower. Its name combines ‘Mary’ and ‘gold’, and the flower has long been associated with warmth, brightness and celebration in different cultures. Its vivid petals bring to mind the sunny end of a rainbow, while the name itself has a charming, old-fashioned appeal. Olive is a feminine name inspired by the olive tree and its fruit, whose muted green shade has become a popular colour in its own right. The olive branch has also been a longstanding symbol of peace and reconciliation. With its earthy, understated quality, Olive is a lovely choice for parents who prefer softer, nature-inspired colours.
