Rainbow
'reɪn.bəʊ
Definitions
2 meaningsAn arc of colored light in the sky caused by refraction and reflection of the sun's rays by rain or other water droplets.
'reɪn.bəʊ
A meteorological phenomenon
The children were excited to see the rainbow after the rain.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're outside after a rain shower, and suddenly you see a big, colorful arch in the sky – that's a rainbow! It's like nature's own art show, created by sunlight and raindrops. Remember, the colors go in a special order: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
👶 For kids: A rainbow is a colorful arch that you see in the sky when the sun shines through the rain.
More Examples
A faint rainbow appeared, promising good weather.
The rainbow was a beautiful sight.
How It's Used
"After the storm, a beautiful rainbow arched across the sky."
"Children often draw rainbows with vibrant colors."
Having a variety of colors; multi-colored.
'reɪn.bəʊ
Having many colors
The rainbow flag is a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community.
💡 Simply: Something is 'rainbow' when it's filled with lots and lots of different colors, just like the actual rainbow in the sky. Imagine a bag of colorful candies or a painting with every color imaginable - that's rainbow-like!
👶 For kids: If something is rainbow, it has lots and lots of colors, like a real rainbow!
More Examples
The cake was decorated with rainbow sprinkles.
She painted a rainbow mural on the wall.
How It's Used
"The company presented a rainbow of products to the public."
"She wore a rainbow dress."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
chasing rainbows
Pursuing unrealistic or unattainable goals.
"He's chasing rainbows by investing in a company with no proven track record."
From Old English *regnboga*, a compound of *regn* (rain) and *boga* (bow), referring to the arc shape.
The word 'rainbow' has been used in English since the Old English period, reflecting its enduring presence in the natural world and human imagination.
Memory tip
Think of the colors in the sky after rain.
Word Origin
"rain-bow (regnboga)"