noun
aura
AW-ruh
noun
1
A distinctive feeling or atmosphere that seems to surround a person or place.
"The old cathedral had an aura of calm and history."
"There was an aura of tension in the room before the announcement."
2
In some belief systems, an invisible glow or energy field said to surround a living being.
"The healer claimed she could see the colours of a person's aura."
3
A warning sensation, such as flashing lights or a strange smell, that some people feel just before a migraine or seizure.
"She knew a migraine was coming because of the aura of flickering light in her vision."
4
(slang) A person's charisma, presence, or overall vibe.
"He walked into the interview with total aura — calm and confident."
How to Use Aura
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA feeling or energy that seems to surround someone or something — from spiritual glows to modern slang for "vibe."
Memory tip
If someone says "he has aura" today, they mean he has presence or swagger — not literally a glowing light.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
an aura of mystery
big aura
lose aura
aura points
Word Forms
aurae plural, auræ plural, auras plural, Auras plural
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The old cathedral had an _____ of calm and history.
Etymology
From Latin aura ("breeze, breath of air"), from Greek aúra. The slang "vibe/charisma" meaning is very recent, spreading through TikTok around 2024.