Sunbeams Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sunbeams

[ˈsʌnbiːmz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

shining through

Narrow beams of light that come from the sun.

Synonyms

sun rays, sunshine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sunbeams

Use this word when describing individual beams of light coming from the sun, especially when they are visible in a defined way, often through clouds or trees.

  • The sunbeams filtered through the dense forest, creating a beautiful light show
  • Little sunbeams danced across the room as the sun rose
sun rays

This term is best used when discussing the direct lines of light emanating from the sun. It can be used in both a scientific and poetic context.

  • Sun rays broke through the morning fog, bathing everything in golden light
  • The sun rays warmed her skin as she lay in the park
sunshine

This word is ideal for describing the overall effect of the sun shining down on a place. It carries a warm, positive, and often cheerful connotation.

  • I love taking walks in the sunshine
  • The garden looked so beautiful, full of sunshine and blooming flowers

Examples of usage

  • The sunbeams filtered through the leaves of the trees.
  • She basked in the warm sunbeams on the beach.
  • The room was filled with golden sunbeams in the morning.
Context #2 | Noun

warmth and light

A ray of sunlight.

Synonyms

beam of sunlight, sunray.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sunbeams

Use this when you want to describe multiple rays of sunlight, often spreading out in various directions. It often has a poetic or idyllic tone.

  • Sunbeams filtered through the leaves, creating a beautiful pattern on the forest floor
sunray

Sunray is often used in similar contexts as 'sunbeams' but typically refers to a single ray. It is less formal than 'beam of sunlight' and can be used in everyday conversation.

  • A sunray broke through the window, warming her face as she sat by the sill
beam of sunlight

Ideal for situations where you want to refer to a single, distinct ray of sunlight. It can be used in both descriptive and scientific contexts.

  • A single beam of sunlight pierced through the clouds, illuminating the ancient temple

Examples of usage

  • The sunbeams brightened up the room.
  • She closed her eyes and felt the sunbeams on her face.
  • The cat stretched out in the sunbeams coming through the window.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Sunbeams are composed of light particles called photons that travel approximately 93 million miles from the sun to Earth.
  • When the Earth's atmosphere scatters sunlight, it creates stunning colors, especially during sunrise and sunset, which gives us beautiful beams of light.

Cultural Symbolism

  • In many cultures, rays of sunlight symbolize hope, positivity, and new beginnings, often appearing in art and literature to convey warmth.
  • Sunbeams are often depicted in paintings to highlight peace, tranquility, or the beauty of nature.

Literature

  • Sunbeams often appear in poetry as metaphors for happiness, joy, and illumination, representing both literal and figurative enlightenment.
  • Famous poets, like William Wordsworth, have used imagery of sunbeams to evoke feelings of nostalgia and the beauty of nature.

Psychology

  • Exposure to sunlight, particularly sunbeams, can increase the production of serotonin in the brain, which elevates mood and promotes happiness.
  • The concept of 'sunlight therapy' is used to help combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), proving how sunbeams can positively affect mental health.

Origin of 'sunbeams'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'beam' comes from Old English 'bēam', meaning 'tree' or 'wood', which relates to something strong and straight like the rays of light.
  • The term 'sunbeam' first appeared in literature during the 14th century, suggesting a poetic view of sunlight.

The word 'sunbeam' originated from Old English 'sunne' (sun) and 'beam' (a ray of light). It has been used in English literature since the Middle Ages to describe the rays of sunlight shining through clouds or trees and symbolizing warmth, light, and hope.


See also: sun, sunbathe, sunbathing, sunbeam, sunday, sundown, sunken, sunlight, sunlit, sunny, sunray, sunrise, sunset, sunshade, sunshades, sunshine, sunup.