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20.02.2025 | see previous words

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"fata morgana"

Italian

> DEFINITION:
A complex form of superior mirage that is seen in a narrow band right above the horizon.
> ETYMOLOGY:
Origin: The term 'fata morgana' originates from the Italian name for the Arthurian sorceress Morgan le Fay, reflecting the magical appearance of these mirages. Historical and Cultural Context: Morgan le Fay, a figure in Arthurian legend, was known for her ability to change shape and create illusions, which is analogous to the deceptive and shifting nature of the fata morgana mirage. Evolution: The term was adopted into scientific lexicon in the 19th century as a poetic description of the optical phenomenon observed mainly over the Strait of Messina between Italy and Sicily. Modern Relevance: Today, 'fata morgana' is used to describe the unusual optical phenomenon that can occur over any large body of water, creating distorted and fantastical images of ships or landforms.
> FUN_FACT:
The fata morgana mirage can make objects appear to float or stretch vertically, leading to historical myths of ghost ships or cities in the sky.
Imagine a breathtaking vista over a vast, shimmering body of water at dusk. The horizon is mysteriously blurred, creating an ethereal scene where distant ships appear to float above the water, their shapes distorted into fantastical forms by the refracted light. The sky is painted with hues of orange and purple, adding to the mystical atmosphere. This scene captures the essence of a 'fata morgana', a natural optical illusion that has inspired legends and captivated the imagination for centuries.
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