Langimage
English

rainbows

|rain/bows|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈreɪnˌboʊz/

🇬🇧

/ˈreɪnˌbəʊz/

(rainbow)

spectrum of light

Base FormPlural
rainbowrainbows
Etymology
Etymology Information

'rainbow' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'regnboga,' where 'regn' meant 'rain' and 'boga' meant 'bow.'

Historical Evolution

'regnboga' transformed into the Middle English word 'reinbowe,' and eventually became the modern English word 'rainbow.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a bow of rain,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a spectrum of light in the sky.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a meteorological phenomenon that is caused by reflection, refraction, and dispersion of light in water droplets resulting in a spectrum of light appearing in the sky.

After the rain, a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a wide range or variety of related and typically colorful things.

The festival showcased a rainbow of cultures.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45