Aureola

/ɔːˈriːələ/ noun

Definition

A halo or circle of light around the head in religious art; a luminous circle or ring of color around something.

Etymology

From Latin 'aureola' meaning 'golden' or 'small gold coin,' diminutive of 'aureus.' In medieval Christian art, it symbolized holiness or divine light.

Kelly Says

Every saint in medieval paintings has an 'aureola'—it's basically a glowing resume that says 'I'm definitely holy' without needing words!

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