anthelic arc: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very low (specialist/scientific)Specialist/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “anthelic arc” mean?
A rare optical phenomenon in the form of a faint, luminous arc appearing opposite the sun (at the antisolar point) in the sky, often seen in conjunction with other halos.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A rare optical phenomenon in the form of a faint, luminous arc appearing opposite the sun (at the antisolar point) in the sky, often seen in conjunction with other halos.
In atmospheric optics, a halo phenomenon caused by the refraction and reflection of sunlight by ice crystals in cirrus clouds. It is part of a family of halos centered on the antisolar point.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
Purely scientific/connotationally neutral.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both variants, confined to meteorological and atmospheric science texts.
Grammar
How to Use “anthelic arc” in a Sentence
The anthelic arc was observed.We saw an anthelic arc.An anthelic arc formed opposite the sun.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “anthelic arc” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The anthelic point is directly opposite the sun.
American English
- Anthelic halo phenomena are quite rare.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in atmospheric physics, meteorology, and optical science papers to describe specific halo phenomena.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Precise term for a halo appearing at the antisolar point, often discussed in relation to crystal orientation (e.g., plate crystals).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “anthelic arc”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “anthelic arc”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “anthelic arc”
- Misspelling as 'anthelix arc' (anthelix is part of the ear).
- Confusing with the more common 'circumzenithal arc'.
- Using it as a general term for any halo.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a rare optical phenomenon requiring specific atmospheric conditions with ice crystals.
Yes, but it is often very faint and requires a clear sky with high cirrus clouds and the observer's back to the sun.
It is caused by the refraction and internal reflection of sunlight through hexagonal ice plate crystals floating in the atmosphere.
A rainbow is caused by water droplets and is centred on the antisolar point, but an anthelic arc is caused by ice crystals and is part of a different family of halo phenomena.
A rare optical phenomenon in the form of a faint, luminous arc appearing opposite the sun (at the antisolar point) in the sky, often seen in conjunction with other halos.
Anthelic arc is usually specialist/scientific in register.
Anthelic arc: in British English it is pronounced /ænˈθiːlɪk ɑːk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ænˈθiːlɪk ɑːrk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'ANTi-HELIos ARC' = an arc opposite the sun.
Conceptual Metaphor
The sky as a canvas for light geometry.
Practice
Quiz
What is an anthelic arc?