Definition
- (noun) A multicoloured arch in the sky, produced by prismatic refraction of light within droplets of rain in the air.
- (noun) Any prismatic refraction of light showing a spectrum of colours.
- (noun) (often used with “of”) A wide assortment; a varied multitude. “a rainbow of possibilities”
- (noun) An illusion, mirage. “Many electoral promises are rainbows, vanishing soon after poll day.”
- (noun) A curveball, particularly a slow one.
- (noun) In Texas hold 'em or Omaha hold 'em, a flop that contains three different suits.
- (noun) Rainbow trout.
- (verb) To brighten with, or as with, a rainbow; to pattern with the colours of the rainbow.
- (verb) To take the appearance of a rainbow.
- (adjective) Multicolored.
- (adjective) Made up of several races or ethnicities, or (more broadly) of several cultural or ideological factions.
- (adjective) LGBT.
Background
The word 'rainbow' is derived from the Old English 'regnboga,' which combines 'regn' meaning 'rain' and 'boga' meaning 'bow.' This etymological root connects 'rainbow' to a family of related terms that evoke imagery of light and color, such as 'bough' and 'bow.' Within its lexical neighbourhood, 'rainbow' encompasses not just the visual phenomenon but also metaphorical uses, signifying hope, diversity, and connection. The spectrum of colors displayed in a rainbow has inspired artistic and cultural expressions throughout history, symbolizing unity and peace. As both a noun and a verb, 'rainbow' captures the essence of beauty and transformation, reflecting the interplay of light and moisture that creates this natural wonder.
Word stats
- Rainbow contains 7 letters: 3 vowel(s) and 4 consonant(s).
- It uses 7 unique letters.
- Estimated syllable count: 2.
- Scrabble-style letter score: 12.
Similar words
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Word neighbours
Other 7-letter words
- abalone
- abandon
- abashed
- abashes
- abasing
- abating
- abbrevs
- abdomen
- abducts
- abetted
- abetter
- abettor
- abiding
- ability
- abjured
- abjures
- abolish
- aborted
Words starting with RAI
- raid
- raided
- raider
- raiders
- raiding
- raids
- rail
- railed
- railing
- railings
- railleries
- raillery
- railroad
- railroaded
- railroading
- railroads
- rails
- railway
See all words starting with RAI →
Words ending with BOW
Frequently asked questions
What does Rainbow mean?
A multicoloured arch in the sky, produced by prismatic refraction of light within droplets of rain in the air.
How many letters are in Rainbow?
Rainbow has 7 letters.
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