Circumzenithal

/ˌsɜːrkəmzɪˈnaɪθəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or occurring around the zenith (the point directly overhead in the sky).

Etymology

From circum- (around) and zenithal, from Arabic samt al-ra's meaning 'way of the head.' The term describes phenomena positioned around the highest point in the celestial sphere.

Kelly Says

The circumzenithal arc is a rare rainbow-like optical phenomenon that appears above the sun—it's more colorful than ordinary rainbows but happens so high up that most people never notice it.

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