Definition

1. Noun:
   • A distinctive but intangible quality surrounding a person or thing: An aura is a subtle atmosphere or feeling that seems to emanate from and surround a person, place, or situation.
   • An indication of radiant light drawn around the head of a saint: In art and religious contexts, an aura is a luminous radiance or halo depicted around a sacred figure.
   • A sensation that precedes the onset of certain disorders: In medicine, an aura is a specific sensory disturbance (like seeing lights or feeling a breeze) that can occur before a migraine or epileptic seizure.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Intangible Quality):
  • The old library had a peaceful aura that made it easy to concentrate.
  • Despite his wealth, he carried an aura of sadness.
• Noun (Luminous Radiance):
  • The icon depicted the saint with a golden aura around her head.
• Noun (Medical Symptom):
  • Her migraine was always preceded by an aura of flashing lights in her vision.

Advanced Usage

• "To have an aura of...": To be surrounded by a particular atmosphere or impression.
  • The leader had an aura of invincibility that inspired his followers.
• "To be surrounded by an aura": To be enveloped in a specific feeling or quality.
  • The event was surrounded by an aura of secrecy.

Variants and Related Words

• Aural (adj): Relating to the ear or the sense of hearing. (Note: This is a different word often confused with 'aura').
• Auric (adj): Relating to an aura (less common).

Synonyms

• Atmosphere: The pervading tone or mood of a place or situation.
• Ambiance: The character and atmosphere of a place.
• Vibe (informal): A person's emotional state or the atmosphere of a place as communicated to and felt by others.
• Halo: A circle of light shown around or above the head of a sacred figure.

Related Phrases

• Positive/Negative aura: Used to describe the general feeling something gives off.
  • The new policy was launched with a positive aura of hope.

Idioms

• "An aura of mystery": A quality that makes someone or something seem mysterious and intriguing.
  • The abandoned mansion held an aura of mystery for the local children.

Noun

1. a distinctive but intangible quality surrounding a person or thing
   • an air of mystery
   • the house had a neglected air
   • an atmosphere of defeat pervaded the candidate's headquarters
   • the place had an aura of romance
2. an indication of radiant light drawn around the head of a saint
3. a sensation (as of a cold breeze or bright light) that precedes the onset of certain disorders such as a migraine attack or epileptic seizure