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aura

n.
US //ˈɔɹə// UK //ˈɔːɹɐ// au·ra
  1. 1 atmosphere or vibe (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the special feeling or mood that a person, place, or thing seems to have.

    a distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place.

    Example

    The old library had a quiet, peaceful aura that made it easy to study.

    Example

    The candidate projected an aura of calm confidence during the debate, which helped reassure voters who were undecided about his experience.
  2. 2 medical warning sign (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    a strange feeling or visual change that some people get just before a migraine or a seizure.

    a subjective sensory disturbance, such as seeing flashing lights or smelling something strange, that precedes a migraine or epileptic seizure.

    Example

    She knew a headache was coming because she started seeing a strange aura in her vision.

    Example

    The patient reported a distinct olfactory aura involving the scent of burnt toast approximately five minutes before the onset of the seizure.

    Usage

    Often used with the indefinite article 'an' or as an uncountable noun in clinical contexts.
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  1. 3 spiritual energy (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Religion

    a glow or energy that some people believe surrounds living things.

    a supposed invisible emanation or field of energy surrounding a person or object, often associated with New Age or mystical beliefs.

    Example

    The psychic claimed she could see a bright yellow aura around the young man.

    Example

    In many spiritual traditions, a golden aura is depicted around the heads of saints to represent their divine enlightenment.
  2. 4 coolness or charisma (n.)
    C1 Advanced Slang Informal

    the level of coolness, style, or respect a person has.

    the perceived charisma, social standing, or 'coolness' of an individual, often used in the context of gaining or losing social points.

    Example

    Tripping in front of your crush is a quick way to lose aura.

    Example

    The striker's aura was so immense that the defenders seemed intimidated before the match even started.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a very modern use popular on social media; it is often used with 'points' (e.g., 'minus 100 aura').

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