nimbus crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive answers for the crossword clue "nimbus crossword clue", organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand why each solution fits. Get quick, accurate help for your puzzle-solving needs.
Solutions for "nimbus crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
AURA: A distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place; sometimes used metaphorically as a halo-like emanation.
HALO: A circle of light or glory appearing around the head of a holy person or above the head of an angel, directly synonymous with one common meaning of nimbus.
5 Letters
CLOUD: A visible mass of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere, typically high above the general level of the ground. The term "nimbus" itself is often used in meteorology to denote a rain-bearing cloud.
GLORY: Great honor, praise, or distinction; also, a radiant light or a halo shown around the head or body of a divine or holy figure, synonymous with nimbus in religious art.
10 Letters
STORMCLOUD: A dense, dark cloud from which rain or snow is falling or is about to fall, perfectly fitting the meteorological definition of a nimbus cloud.
More About "nimbus crossword clue"
The word "nimbus" carries a rich dual meaning that frequently appears in crossword puzzles. Originating from Latin, it literally means "cloud" or "rainstorm." This meteorological sense is evident in terms like "nimbostratus" or "cumulonimbus" clouds, which are associated with precipitation. Therefore, answers like CLOUD or STORMCLOUD are very fitting for this aspect of the clue.
However, "nimbus" also refers to a luminous cloud, halo, or radiant light surrounding a divine or holy figure, particularly in art and religious contexts. This is where answers such as HALO, AURA, or GLORY come into play. Crossword setters often leverage this ambiguity, requiring solvers to consider both the atmospheric and the ethereal interpretations of the word to find the correct fit for the given letter count.
Understanding these distinct yet related meanings is key to successfully tackling "nimbus" clues. Always consider the context of other intersecting words or the puzzle's theme to discern which interpretation is intended. This clue is a classic example of how crosswords test not just your vocabulary, but also your understanding of nuance and multiple definitions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Letter Count: The length of the answer is your most powerful constraint. If "nimbus" yields a 4-letter answer, you'll think of HALO or AURA. If it's 5 letters, CLOUD or GLORY become possibilities.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, especially classic crossword fodder like "nimbus," have more than one primary meaning. Always think of synonyms for all definitions (e.g., for "nimbus," think cloud types AND halos).
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by crossing answers are invaluable. If you have an 'A' for a 4-letter "nimbus" clue, AURA becomes a stronger candidate than HALO.
- Think Meteorology and Mythology: For "nimbus," activate your knowledge of both weather terms and religious/mythological imagery. This dual thinking is often required for such versatile words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'nimbus' mean in a crossword context?
'Nimbus' in a crossword clue often refers to a halo, a cloud (especially a rain-bearing one), or an aura. It can also imply a surrounding glow or atmosphere, frequently appearing in clues related to weather, divinity, or an ethereal presence.
Are there different types of nimbus clouds?
Yes, specifically, 'nimbostratus' is a type of nimbus cloud that is typically low-level, dark, and associated with continuous rain or snow. 'Cumulonimbus' clouds are tall, dense, and involved in thunderstorms, often towering vertically and bringing heavy precipitation.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills for nature-related clues?
Familiarize yourself with common terms for weather phenomena, geological features, flora, and fauna. Keeping a mental glossary of frequently used synonyms for such terms will be highly beneficial. Additionally, pay attention to the clue's phrasing; words like 'potentially' or 'sometimes' can indicate broader meanings, while scientific terms point to specific answers. Regular practice and observing patterns in clues will also help build your vocabulary and intuition for these types of puzzles.