Langimage
English

halo

|ha/lo|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈheɪloʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈheɪləʊ/

circle of light

Etymology
Etymology Information

'halo' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'halōs,' where 'hal-' meant 'threshing floor' or 'disk.'

Historical Evolution

'halōs' transformed into the Latin word 'halō,' and eventually became the modern English word 'halo' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'disk' or 'circle,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'circle of light.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a circle of light appearing to surround the sun or moon.

A halo appeared around the moon last night.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a circle of light or brightness surrounding the head of a holy figure in art.

The painting depicted an angel with a golden halo.

Synonyms

Noun 3

a feeling or quality that seems to surround a person or thing.

She had a halo of kindness around her.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/28 23:16