Emily Dickinson Lexicon

rainbow (-s, 's), n. [OE; see rain and bow, n.] (webplay: clouds, colored, day, drop, eyes, heaven, horizon, sun, sea, water).

1. Arc of colored light in the sky after rain; beautiful natural phenomenon caused by the reflection and refraction of light by drops of water in the air.
2. [Fig.] beautiful blooming colors of approaching spring.
3. [Fig.] hope; calm after a storm; resurrection; life after death.
4. [Fig.] beauty; magic; bliss; joy; happiness; contentment; freedom from care or trial.