Nimbus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ๏ธ
nimbus
[หnษชmbษs ]
Definitions
weather
A luminous cloud or a halo surrounding a supernatural being or a saint.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nimbus |
Used to describe a luminous cloud or a halo surrounding a deity or a person, or something that gives an impression of a glow around someone or something, often in a mystical or divine context.
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| halo |
Often used to describe a circle of light shown around or above the head of a holy person to represent their holiness, but can also mean a surrounding glow in a general sense.
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| aura |
Refers to the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place. Often used in a non-visual sense to describe someoneโs presence or mood.
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| glory |
Associated with magnificent and grand beauty or splendor, often attributing a high degree of honor or praise. Can be used in both religious and secular contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The painting depicted an angel with a nimbus around its head.
- In religious art, nimbus is often used to symbolize holiness.
aviation
A cloud of a class characterized by a generally gray color, with a ragged or wispy appearance.
Synonyms
cumulonimbus, storm cloud, thundercloud.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nimbus |
This term is generally used in meteorology to describe a type of cloud that is dense and rain-bearing. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a halo or a glowing circle around a person or thing, often implying a sense of holiness or importance.
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| storm cloud |
This term is used in everyday language to describe any dark, threatening cloud that appears to be associated with an approaching storm. It is less specific than terms like 'nimbus' or 'cumulonimbus'.
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| thundercloud |
This term is used to describe a cloud that produces thunder and lightning, typically in a thunderstorm scenario. It often carries a connotation of danger and severity.
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| cumulonimbus |
This term is used specifically in meteorology to describe a towering cloud that is capable of producing thunderstorms and other severe weather. It is often associated with heavy rain, lightning, and tornadoes.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot encountered nimbus clouds during the flight.
- The forecast warned of nimbus clouds bringing rain.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Meteorology
- Nimbus clouds are typically classified as nimbostratus or cumulonimbus, both of which are associated with precipitation.
- Cumulonimbus are towering clouds, capable of producing severe weather like thunderstorms and tornadoes.
- Nimbostratus clouds create overcast conditions, often bringing steady rain or snow, leading to prolonged, dreary weather.
Art and Literature
- Nimbus clouds have often been used in paintings to evoke moods, from stormy tumult to tranquil rains.
- In poetry, the image of a 'nimbus' can symbolize impending change or emotional heaviness, akin to rain washing away old feelings.
- Famous paintings, such as those by Turner, capture nimbus clouds to express dramatic natural phenomena.
Cultural References
- Nimbus is also used in the context of art to describe a halo surrounding figures, often invoking a sense of sanctity or importance.
- The term has been adopted in popular culture, such as 'Nimbus 2000,' a broomstick in the Harry Potter series, emphasizing speed and agility.
- In folklore and myth, the presence of nimbus clouds often precedes significant events, symbolizing the culmination of stories or hero's journeys.
Science
- Nimbus clouds play a crucial role in the water cycle, helping to distribute moisture around the planet.
- Studying nimbus clouds can advance our understanding of climate change and weather patterns, contributing to more accurate forecasting.
- They can reflect and scatter light dramatically, leading to stunning sunsets and atmospheric optics like rainbows.
Origin of 'nimbus'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nimbus' comes from Latin, meaning 'rain' or 'cloud'.
- It dates back to the 17th century when it was used specifically to refer to rain-bearing clouds.
- In classical literature, it was often associated with divine or extraordinary phenomena, suggesting a connection to the sublime.
The word 'nimbus' originated from Latin, where it means 'rainstorm' or 'cloud'. Over time, it came to be associated with the halo or aura seen around divine figures in art. In meteorology, 'nimbus' refers to a type of cloud that often brings rain or storms. The term has been used for centuries to describe both celestial and atmospheric phenomena.