WordGarden.iorainbow
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˈeɪnbəʊ/
US
- /ˈreɪnˌboʊ/
Meanings
Noun
an arc of colored light seen in the sky when sunlight shines through rain
a wide range or variety of different things
Adjective
having many colors
relating to LGBTQ+ pride, identity, or inclusion
Beyond the definition
A rainbow is a beautiful arc of colors that appears in the sky when sunlight passes through raindrops. It often shows up after rain, and for many people it feels like a sign of hope, promise, or good luck. It is both a real part of nature and something that seems a little magical.
You might spot one after a summer storm, or even make a small one with a garden hose on a sunny day. The phrase "chasing rainbows" means going after dreams that may never come true, and a double rainbow is often seen as extra special. For a long time, rainbows have appeared in stories, art, and folklore, from old legends to bright church windows.
A rainbow is a multicolored arc formed when sunlight shines through raindrops. It appears as a spectrum of light, typically displaying red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. While we often picture rainbows arching across the sky, they are actually full circles—but from our perspective on the ground, we usually only see a portion of the arc.
The science behind a rainbow involves refraction (bending), reflection, and dispersion of light within water droplets. Sunlight enters a raindrop, bends as it passes through, reflects off the back of the drop, and then bends again as it exits—separating into its component colors. The position of the sun and the observer are crucial for seeing a rainbow; you will always see it positioned directly opposite the sun.
But rainbows aren't just about science! Throughout history and across cultures, they have held deep symbolic meaning. In many traditions, they represent hope, good luck, new beginnings, or a bridge between heaven and earth. The story of Noah's Ark, for instance, features a rainbow as a promise from God that He would never again flood the Earth.
The term "rainbow" can also be used metaphorically to describe diversity or inclusivity—a "rainbow coalition" refers to a group made up of people from many different backgrounds. Ultimately, it is associated with joy and wonder, reminding us of the beauty that can emerge even after a storm. Whether you're marveling at its scientific explanation or embracing its symbolic power, a rainbow is truly a captivating sight.
Examples
- 1
Weather
After the rain, a rainbow appeared over the sea.
- 2
Rare sight
We were lucky enough to see two rainbows at once.
- 3
Pride symbol
She wore a rainbow pin on her jacket to show support for LGBTQ+ rights.
- 4
Bright variety
In spring, the market turns into a rainbow of flowers and fruit.
- Phrasea rainbow of
a wide range of bright colors
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Unrealistic goals
His plan sounded exciting, but his friends said he was chasing rainbows.
- Phrasechase rainbows
try to achieve something unrealistic
See also
Similar
- arc of color
Shades of meaning
- prismatic arc
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- see a rainbow
- rainbow colors
- double rainbow
- rainbow after the rain
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- rainbownoun
Forms
- rainbowspluralnoun