A cloud; a visible mass of condensed watery vapor floating in the atmosphere.

Origin: The word "облако" comes from Old East Slavic "облако" (oblako), meaning a cloud. The term is derived from Proto-Slavic *oblakъ, which is believed to have meant something enveloping or covering, possibly related to the Proto-Indo-European root *h₃ebʰ-, meaning 'to cover' or 'to veil'. Historical and Cultural Context: The earliest attestations of "облако" can be found in Old East Slavic texts. Clouds have been a significant part of Slavic folklore and literature, often symbolizing change, mystery, and the divine. Evolution: While the core meaning of "облако" has remained stable over time, its usage has expanded metaphorically in Russian literature to describe anything that envelops or obscures. Cognates can be found in other Slavic languages, such as Polish "obłok" and Czech "oblak". Modern Relevance: In contemporary Russian, "облако" is used in both literal and figurative senses, including expressions like "в облаках" (in the clouds), meaning to daydream or be distracted.

In Russian folklore, clouds are often depicted as vehicles for gods or spirits, symbolizing mystery and the unknown.