Nimbus

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈnɪmbÉ™s/
• Rhymes: -ɪmbÉ™s

Origin

From Latin nimbus ("dark cloud")

Full definition of nimbus

Noun

1. A circle of light; a halo.
2. A gray rain cloud.

Usage notes

(circle of light) In heraldry and art, a nimbus may be considered distinct from a halo. The term halo can refer to an open ring of light or of gold behind the head of a saint, while nimbus refers to a solid disk of light or gold.

Synonyms

• (circle of light) halo

Related terms

• nimbed