Definition of: aureola

(ô·rē′ə·lə) noun
1. In art, a radiance enveloping the whole figure or head of Christ or any sanctified being; a glory; halo; aureole.
2. A radiance, or something resembling or likened to it.
3. In the Roman Catholic Church, a reward added to the essential bliss of heaven for spiritual victories achieved on earth. [<L < aureolus golden, dim. of aureus <aurum gold]