English Reference
Noun

orb

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US /ˈɔɹb/ UK /ˈɔːb/ orb UK spelling orbing, orbs Architecture Military

n.a round object that is shaped like a ball. It is often used to describe something glowing or beautiful, like the moon or a royal decoration.

n.a spherical body or object. Often used in literary contexts to describe celestial bodies or ceremonial regalia, such as a globus cruciger.


SIMPLE

The moon was a glowing white orb in the night sky.

CONTEXTUAL

The king held a golden orb in his left hand during the coronation ceremony to represent his power.

COMPLEX

As the sun dipped below the horizon, it appeared as a massive crimson orb, casting long and distorted shadows across the silent desert floor.

Usage

Frequently used in poetic or high-register prose to describe the sun, moon, or eyes.

A cluster of archangel’s wings bearing books hovers before the vast orb of the sun above a fish-filled sea.

The Guardian· 11 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated