Meaning & Definition of word "Umbra"
to
Umbra
/ˈʌm.brə/
noun:
- 1. The fully shaded inner region of a shadow cast by an opaque object.
- Example: During the solar eclipse, the moon cast its umbra upon the Earth, plunging a narrow path into darkness.
- 2. A shadow or a shaded area.
- Example: The cat found a comfortable spot in the umbra of the tree, away from the harsh sunlight.
- 3. In astronomy, the darkest part of a shadow, such as that cast by Earth or the moon during an eclipse.
- Example: Astronomers calculated that the umbra would pass over several countries during the total solar eclipse.
Etymology
From Latin 'umbra' meaning 'shadow' or 'shade'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
umbra and penumbra:
Refers to the different parts of a shadow, with umbra being the complete shadow and penumbra being the partial shading.
Related Words
penumbra:
The partially shaded outer region of a shadow.
shade:
Comparison to a shadow cast by a translucent object.
Slang Meanings of umbra
Meaning: A term used in gaming to refer to being stealthy or hidden.
Example Sentence: He moved in the umbra to avoid being spotted by enemies.