Translation guide
The English word "nimbus" has two main meanings: a type of cloud and a halo or aura. This guide covers how to express both in Japanese.
Referring to a dark, rain-bearing cloud, especially in meteorological contexts.
General term for a rain cloud, often used in weather forecasts.
乱雲が空を覆っている。
Nimbus clouds are covering the sky.
Literally 'rain cloud', a common and natural word for any cloud bringing rain.
雨雲が近づいてきた。
Rain clouds are approaching.
Cumulonimbus cloud, a specific meteorological term for towering rain clouds.
積乱雲が発達すると雷雨になる。
When cumulonimbus clouds develop, they turn into thunderstorms.
Describing a luminous cloud or halo surrounding a deity, saint, or supernatural being, or metaphorically an aura of glory.
A halo or radiant light depicted behind holy figures in religious art; also used metaphorically for an impressive aura.
仏像の後ろに後光が描かれている。
A nimbus is depicted behind the Buddha statue.
彼は後光が差しているように見えた。
He seemed to have a nimbus around him.
A ring of light, often used for halos in Western religious contexts.
A halo or ring of light around the sun or moon; also used for a nimbus in art, but less common.
月の周りに暈が出ている。
There is a nimbus around the moon.
後光 is the most common term for a religious nimbus or halo, especially in Buddhist contexts. 光輪 is more specifically a ring of light and is often used for Western angels. For a metaphorical aura, 後光 is preferred.
天使の頭に光輪が輝いていた。
A nimbus shone around the angel's head.