July 12, 2026

Penumbra

noun

Definition

The partially shaded outer region of the shadow cast by an object; the marginal or somewhat shadowy area. It is widely used metaphorically to mean a fringe or peripheral zone.

Example Sentence

“The penumbra of the eclipse slowly crept across the stadium, cooling the air noticeably.”

Etymology

From Latin paene (almost) + umbra (shadow).

Scrabble Score

P3E1N1U1M3B3R1A1

PENUMBRA scores 14 points in Scrabble.

Synonyms & Related Words

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