\Nim"bus\, n.; pl. L. {Nimbi}, E. {Nimbuses}. [L., a rain
storm, a rain cloud, the cloudshaped which enveloped the gods
when they appeared on earth.]
1. (Fine Arts) A circle, or disk, or any indication of
   radiant light around the heads of divinities, saints, and
   sovereigns, upon medals, pictures, etc.; a halo. See
   {Aureola}, and {Glory}, n., 5.
Note: ``The nimbus is of pagan origin.'' ``As an atribute of
      power, the nimbus is often seen attached to the heads
      of evil spirits.'' --Fairholl.
2. (Meteor.) A rain cloud; one of the four principal
   varieties of clouds. See {Cloud}.