nimbus

nim·bus

noun \ˈnim-bəs\

plural nim·bi\-ˌbī, -ˌbē\ or nim·bus·es

Definition of NIMBUS

1

a : a luminous vapor, cloud, or atmosphere about a god or goddess when on earth b : a cloud or atmosphere (as of romance) about a person or thing

2

: an indication (as a circle) of radiant light or glory about the head of a drawn or sculptured divinity, saint, or sovereign

3

a : a rain cloud b : thunderhead; also : cumulus 2

Examples of NIMBUS

1. <fans are inevitably disappointed when the nimbus of glamour about their favorite celebrity turns out to be an illusion>
2. <the nimbi for the sculpted figures around the exterior of the church are simple disks about the saints' heads>

Illustration of NIMBUS

Origin of NIMBUS

Latin, rainstorm, cloud; probably akin to Latin nebula cloud — more at nebula

First Known Use: 1616

Related to NIMBUS

Synonyms: air, ambience (or ambiance), aroma, atmosphere, climate, flavor, halo, karma, mood, aura, note, odor, patina, smell, temper, vibration(s)

Related Words: aureole (or aureola), mystique, romance; genius loci; feel, feeling, sensation, sense, spirit; attribute, character, characteristic, image, mark, notion, peculiarity, picture, property, trait; color, illusion, overtone, semblance, suggestion, tone

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Other Mythology and Folklore Terms

elysian, fay, muse, phoenix

Rhymes with NIMBUS

limbus