parhelion

noun par·he·lion \pär-ˈhēl-yən\

plural par·he·lia\-yə\

Definition of PARHELION

: any of several bright spots often tinged with color that often appear on the parhelic circle —called also sun dog

— par·he·lic \-ˈhē-lik\ adjective

Latin parelion, from Greek parēlion, from para- + hēlios sun — more at solar

First Known Use: 1647

Next Word in the Dictionary: parhomologousPrevious Word in the Dictionary: parhelic circleAll Words Near: parhelion

What made you want to look up parhelion? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears