a bow or arc of prismatic colors appearing in the heavens opposite the sun and caused by the refraction and reflection of the sun's rays in drops of rain. Cf.
a similar bow of colors, esp. one appearing in the spray of a waterfall or fountain.
any brightly multicolored arrangement or display.
a wide variety or range; gamut.
a visionary goal: He pursued the rainbow of a singing career for years before becoming a success.
See
—adj.
made up of diverse races, ethnic groups, etc.: a rainbow coalition of supporters.