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eclipse

/iˈklɪps/

noun

Meaning

  • An alignment of astronomical objects whereby one object comes between the observer (or notional observer) and another object, thus obscuring the latter.

  • Especially, an alignment whereby a planetary object (for example, the Moon) comes between the Sun and another planetary object (for example, the Earth), resulting in a shadow being cast by the middle planetary object onto the other planetary object.

  • A seasonal state of plumage in some birds, notably ducks, adopted temporarily after the breeding season and characterised by a dull and scruffy appearance.

  • Obscurity, decline, downfall

verb

Meaning

  • Of astronomical bodies, to cause an eclipse.

    "The Moon eclipsed the Sun."

  • To overshadow; to be better or more noticeable than.

  • (Irish grammar) To undergo eclipsis.