OpenSynonym

eclipse

/ɪˈklɪps/

NOUN

1. Astronomical obstruction of light

An astronomical event in which one celestial body moves into alignment with another body and blocks its light, either partially or completely, from an observer's perspective.

1.1. Solar and lunar eclipses

Used in astronomy to describe the temporary obscuration of the Sun or Moon when celestial bodies align and one passes into the shadow of another or blocks its light.

Synonyms

  • occultation
  • obscuration
  • astronomical alignment

Examples

  • The total eclipse of the Sun attracted astronomers and skywatchers from around the world.
  • A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon.

Related Words

NOUN

2. Obscurity and decline

A state of reduced prominence, influence, importance, or visibility, often resulting in something becoming less recognized or influential than it once was.

2.1. Loss of prominence and influence

Used figuratively to describe the gradual disappearance of someone's reputation, influence, achievements, or importance from public attention.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The once-famous actor gradually fell into eclipse as younger performers gained popularity.
  • The political party's influence entered a period of eclipse following its electoral defeat.
  • The empire's cultural dominance suffered a long eclipse after its collapse.

Related Words

VERB

3. Causing an astronomical eclipse

To cause one celestial body to obscure another by moving between it and an observer or by casting a shadow upon it.

3.1. Celestial bodies obscuring one another

Used in astronomy when one celestial object passes in front of another or casts its shadow over another object, temporarily blocking its light.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The Moon eclipses the Sun during a total solar eclipse.
  • The planet passes in front of the distant star and temporarily eclipses its light.

Related Words

  • occultation
  • astronomical alignment
  • solar radiation
  • celestial mechanics
  • shadow
  • transit

VERB

4. Outshining or overshadowing

To surpass another person or thing in importance, achievement, prominence, attractiveness, or performance, making the other seem less significant or noticeable.

4.1. Superiority in achievement and performance

Used when someone performs better than competitors or surpasses others in ability, accomplishments, success, or professional achievement.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • Her outstanding achievements eclipsed those of her competitors.
  • The young athlete eclipsed the previous record with an extraordinary performance.
  • The company's innovative products quickly eclipsed those of its established rivals.

Related Words

4.2. Prominence and public recognition

Used when a person, event, or achievement becomes more noticeable, famous, or influential than another, reducing the latter's visibility or public attention.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The rising star's popularity eclipsed that of many established celebrities.
  • Her remarkable performance eclipsed the excitement surrounding the other events.
  • The new discovery threatened to eclipse the importance of earlier scientific breakthroughs.

Related Words

4.3. Concealment and reduction of visibility

Used when something covers, obscures, or diminishes the visibility, significance, or impact of another person or thing.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The scandal eclipsed the politician's previous accomplishments.
  • A massive cloud eclipsed the sunlight, casting the entire valley into darkness.
  • The controversy threatened to eclipse the positive results of the investigation.

Related Words