umbra

noun

The fully shaded inner region of a shadow; the darkest part of a sunspot.

Intermediate - Known to most educated speakers

Etymology

From Latin umbra "shadow, shade." Related to umbrella (little shadow), somber, and umbrage.

Examples in Use

1.
"The moon passed through Earth's umbra during the eclipse."
2.
"The umbra of the sundial marked noon."
3.
"Sunspots consist of a dark umbra surrounded by a lighter penumbra."

Related Vocabulary

Synonyms

shadowshadedarknessgloom

Related Words

penumbraeclipsesilhouetteobscurity

Fun Fact

During a total solar eclipse, viewers in the umbra see totality—complete blocking of the sun. Those in the penumbra (partial shadow) see only a partial eclipse. The umbra is surprisingly narrow.

Word Game Tips

Letters: 5 letters (U, M, B, R, A)

Scrabble Value: 9 points

Tip: Words ending in "RA" are often good scoring opportunities.

Put Your Vocabulary to the Test!

Ready to find words like "umbra" in a puzzle? Try today's Zabble challenge!

Play Now Get Hints Strategy Tips