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Having a strong religious or spiritual quality; indicating or suggesting the presence of a divinity.
synonyms:spiritualsacred
The word 'numinous' comes from the Latin 'numen', meaning 'divine will' or 'deity'. It was first introduced into English in the 19th century.
The term is often used in religious or philosophical contexts to describe experiences or feelings that evoke a sense of the divine.
While not used in everyday conversation, it appears in discussions about spirituality, philosophy, and literature.
As she stood in the ancient cathedral, she felt a numinous presence enveloping her.
The artist aimed to capture the numinous beauty of the natural world in her paintings.
Many people describe their first encounter with the vastness of the universe as a numinous experience.
The word 'numinous' carries an enchanting aura, evoking the mystery and majesty of the divine. Originating from the Latin word 'numen', which refers to a deity or divine power, it was embraced by English speakers to describe experiences that transcend the ordinary. Although it may not pop up in daily chatter, 'numinous' finds its home in the realms of spirituality and art, where the sacred and sublime intersect. So next time you're struck by a moment of awe, you might just have a numinous experience!