nimbus

1. A luminous cloud or a halo surrounding a supernatural being or a saint.

   synonyms:haloaura

2. A type of rain cloud that produces precipitation.

   synonyms:cloudstorm cloud

The word 'nimbus' comes from the Latin word 'nimbus', meaning 'cloud' or 'rain'. It was adopted into English in the late 17th century.

The term is commonly used in meteorology to describe specific types of clouds, as well as in religious and artistic contexts to refer to a halo or aura.

While 'nimbus' is not a daily conversation word for most people, it appears frequently in discussions about weather and is also found in artistic and literary contexts.

As the storm approached, dark nimbus clouds rolled across the sky, signaling the impending rain.

In religious art, saints are often depicted with a nimbus around their heads, symbolizing their holiness.

Meteorologists identified a nimbus cloud formation, warning residents of the potential for heavy rainfall in the area.

The word 'nimbus' not only refers to a type of cloud but also carries a celestial connotation, evoking images of divine light and holiness. Its roots in Latin connect it to the natural world's beauty and mystery. First used in English in the late 1600s, 'nimbus' can be found in both scientific discussions about weather and in art depicting spiritual beings. So, whether you're caught in a rain shower or admiring a painting, keep an eye out for this fascinating word!