aura
Pronunciation: /ˈɔːrə/
noun ( plural auras or aurae /-riː/)
- 1the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place: the ceremony retains an aura of mystery
- 2(in spiritualism and some forms of alternative medicine) a supposed emanation surrounding the body of a living creature and regarded as an essential part of the individual: emotional, mental, and spiritual levels form an energy field around the body known as the aura muddy colours in the aura indicate negative emotions
- any invisible emanation, especially an odour: there was a faint aura of disinfectant
Origin:
late Middle English (originally denoting a gentle breeze): via Latin from Greek, 'breeze, breath'. Current senses date from the 18th century