Pronunciation: [nˈɪmbəs] (IPA) 
The word "nimbus" is spelled with a silent "b". The IPA phonetic transcription for "nimbus" is /ˈnɪmbəs/. The "n" and "i" are pronounced as expected, but the "m" is followed by a silent "b". This can be confusing for English language learners because the spelling does not match the pronunciation. The word "nimbus" refers to a rain cloud, often seen in cartoons as a fluffy cloud with a raindrop falling from it.
Nimbus, as a noun, is defined as a type of cloud or weather phenomenon that is characterized by a surrounding dark or gray cloud mass with a distinct outline or shape. It typically surrounds or envelops a specific object, such as the head or body of a deity, particularly in religious art. In this sense, nimbus is often associated with gods, saints, angels, or other sacred figures, symbolizing their divinity, enlightenment, or sanctity.
Additionally, nimbus can refer to a luminous or iridescent light or halo that surrounds a person or object, creating a distinct or radiant aura. This usage of the term is often seen in religious and spiritual contexts, representing a person's elevated spiritual or metaphysical state.
Furthermore, nimbus can also describe a radiant or glowing quality that surrounds something, not necessarily related to a religious or sacred context. It can refer to an aura or atmosphere of brilliance, grandeur, or presence that is associated with an individual, place, or event.
Moreover, nimbus has an alternative usage in meteorology as well. It can refer to a circular or cloud-like rain-bearing area that surrounds the eye of a hurricane or cyclone; typically characterized by heavy rain, strong winds, and tumultuous weather conditions.
In summary, nimbus has diverse meanings, encompassing both meteorological and religious connotations. It can imply a cloud, aura, halo, or radiant glow representing divinity, enlightenment, sanctity, brilliance, or a meteorological phenomenon surrounding the eye of a storm.
The rain-cloud; in anc. myth., the cloud of light around the person of a god when he appeared on earth; the circle of light around the heads of saints; a halo.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "nimbus" is derived from Latin. It comes from the Latin noun "nimbus", which means "cloud" or "rainstorm". The word was widely adopted in English and other languages to refer to a type of cloud associated with precipitation and often heavy rain. The term "nimbus" is commonly used in meteorology to describe a type of rain cloud, known as a cumulonimbus, which is characterized by its tall and dark appearance.
