Definition
parhelia
noun
- Plural of parhelion; bright spots that appear on either side of the sun, caused by the refraction of sunlight through ice crystals in the atmosphere.
Usage: Also called sun dogs or mock suns.; Primarily used in meteorology and astronomy.
Examples
- The parhelia were clearly visible on the cold winter morning.
- Observers reported seeing parhelia on both sides of the sun during the ice storm.
- The atmospheric conditions created spectacular parhelia that lasted for several hours.
- Ancient cultures often interpreted parhelia as omens or supernatural signs.
- Photographers captured stunning images of the parhelia phenomenon.