halo

• Cercle de lumière représenté autour ou au-dessus de la tête d'un saint dans l'art religieux, ou phénomène naturel similaire tel qu'un anneau lumineux autour du soleil ou de la lune.

A noun referring to a circle of light shown around or above the head of a holy person in religious art, or a similar natural phenomenon such as a ring of light around the sun or moon.

1. Religious or artistic symbolB1formal

   A circle of light shown around the head of a holy figure in religious art.

   Halo religieux

   • The painting shows the saint with a golden halo.
   • Angels are often depicted with a halo above their heads.
   • The halo symbolizes divine light and holiness.

   Synonymesaureoleglorynimbus

2. Astronomical phenomenonB2formal

   A ring of light around the sun or moon caused by ice crystals in the atmosphere.

   Halo (phénomène astronomique)

   • We saw a beautiful halo around the moon last night.
   • The sun had a faint halo due to high-altitude clouds.
   • Halos are often seen in cold weather conditions.

   Synonymesaureolecoronanimbusring

3. Figurative useB2informal

   A symbolic aura of goodness or virtue surrounding a person.

   Aura de sainteté

   • She has a halo of kindness that everyone notices.
   • His reputation gave him a halo of trustworthiness.
   • The politician tried to maintain a halo of integrity.

   Synonymesauraaureoleglorynimbusradiance