WorldAugust 12, 2026

umbra

UM-bruh

Definition

The innermost and darkest part of a shadow, where the light source is completely obstructed by the occluding body.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'umbra', meaning shadow or shade, which has been used in English since the 16th century to describe various types of shaded areas.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the specific location on Earth where viewers can witness a total solar eclipse, as opposed to the partial shadow (penumbra).

Europe’s total solar eclipse: the best place to see it and how to view it safely

Read the full article ↗

The Guardian

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