Lunette (pronounced loo-nette) is a crescent-shaped figure or object. In architecture a lunette is an area in the plane of a wall enframed by an arch or vault with a painting, sculpture, or window usually filling said area. In nature a lunette is a low crescentic mound (such as of sand) formed by the wind. Lunette derives from the Latin luna (moon) and -ette (a diminutive suffix). This origin makes lunette seem as though it should mean little moon, though considering its definitions that actually rings a bit true since the shapes it’s describing are like little crescent moons.
Lunette is a word and a shape that most selenophiles will probably adore (I know I do). Seeing a lunette window is a treat and they have something magical about them, like they hold a special view of the heavens through their panes. Then there are the lunette arches that provide settings for glorious works of art – which I’ve found a bit rare but so stunning to see. There is just something about the shape of the crescent moon that is both captivating and soothing, whether in it’s natural form or in a man-made lunette form.
The very sight that lunette gets it’s shape and name from, so utterly glorious!
I really like the word lunette, it’s poetic in it’s written and visual forms – a gently curved little moon!
Namaste ~ Ella
*Check out the Word Nerd Index and my Word Nerd Pinterest Board for other superb words!
** If there’s a word you’d like to see added to the Word Nerd roster, please feel free to contact me or suggest it in the comments – I love feedback and recommendations!
Lawhimsy 