penumbra

[ pi-nuhm-bruh ]
/ pɪˈnʌm brə /

noun, plural pe·num·brae [pi-nuhm-bree] /pɪˈnʌm bri/, pe·num·bras.

Astronomy.
  1. the partial or imperfect shadow outside the complete shadow of an opaque body, as a planet, where the light from the source of illumination is only partly cut off.Compare umbra(def 3a).
  2. the grayish marginal portion of a sunspot.Compare umbra(def 3b).
a shadowy, indefinite, or marginal area.

Origin of penumbra

1660–70; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin paen- pen- + umbra shade

OTHER WORDS FROM penumbra

pe·num·bral, pe·num·brous, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for penumbra

British Dictionary definitions for penumbra

penumbra
/ (pɪˈnʌmbrə) /

noun plural -brae (-briː) or -bras

a fringe region of half shadow resulting from the partial obstruction of light by an opaque object
astronomy the lighter and outer region of a sunspot
painting the point or area in which light and shade blend
Compare umbra

Derived forms of penumbra

penumbral or penumbrous, adjective

Word Origin for penumbra

C17: via New Latin from Latin paene almost + umbra shadow

Scientific definitions for penumbra

penumbra
[ pĭ-nŭmbrə ]

Plural penumbras penumbrae (pĭ-nŭmbrē)

A partial shadow between regions of full shadow (the umbra) and full illumination, especially as cast by Earth, the Moon, or another body during an eclipse. During a partial lunar eclipse, a portion of the Moon's disk remains within the penumbra of Earth's shadow while the rest is darkened by the umbra. See Note at eclipse.
The grayish outer part of a sunspot. Compare umbra.