French word

aura

Pronunciation

IPA/oʁa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounatmosphere

Example

Le café a une aura calme.

The cafe has a calm atmosphere.

Illustration for aura (atmosphere)

More examples

Sa présence dégage une aura positive.

His presence exudes a positive aura.

Core concept

A subtle cloud of feeling surrounding something, sensed through its appearance, behavior, or setting rather than seen directly.

Common phrases

  • avoir une aura

    have an aura

  • une aura positive

    a positive aura

  • une aura de mystère

    an aura of mystery

Similar words

atmosphère: The felt mood or tension surrounding an event or situation.
ambiance: The mood created by a setting's arrangement, sounds, and lighting.
air: An outward impression or manner perceived in a person or place.

Definition in French

Atmosphère subjective composée d'éléments non matériels qui se dégage d'une personne, d'un lieu ou d'une situation.

Word origin

The noun was borrowed through Latin aura, 'breeze' or 'air', a word inherited from Greek, before developing the figurative sense of a surrounding impression.

Usage tips

  • Aura has a somewhat subjective and literary tone; ambiance or atmosphere is often more natural for a cafe's ordinary physical feel.

Word lists with this word