Definition
An optical phenomenon consisting of an arch or halo around the sun created by light refracting and reflecting through ice crystals in cirrus clouds, resembling a rainbow but typically appearing as a whitish ring rather than a spectrum of colors.
Example Usage
On the cold winter morning, a brilliant sunbow formed around the sun, a sign of approaching weather changes.
Origin
Compound of 'sun' and 'bow' (rainbow), describing the arc-like appearance around the sun.
Fun Fact
Unlike rainbows which require water droplets and typically appear when the sun is behind you, sunbows form from ice crystals and can appear regardless of your position relative to the sun.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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See “Sunbow” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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