Eclipse

Noun

Definition: An obscuring of the light from one celestial body by the passage of another between it and the observer or between it and its source of illumination.

Synonyms: Obscuration, Darkening, Overshadowing

Antonyms: Illumination, Brightness

Examples:

The eclipse of the moon was visible from our backyard.
The solar eclipse was a rare and spectacular sight.

Mnemonics:

"Eclipse" sounds similar to "eclipsed," which means something is overshadowed or obscured.

Verb

Definition: (Rare) To obscure or darken something in a way resembling an eclipse.

Definition: To outshine or overshadow someone or something.

Synonyms: Overshadow, Outshine, Darken

Antonyms: Illuminate, Brighten, Highlight

Examples:

The giant skyscraper eclipsed the smaller buildings around it.
Her talent as a singer eclipsed that of her peers.

Mnemonics:

Think of a big shadow being cast over something, just like an eclipse.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "eclipse" originated from the Latin word "eclipsis," which came from the Greek word "ekleipsis," meaning abandonment, failure, or cessation.

Historical Usage:

The concept of eclipses has been observed and documented by ancient civilizations, and the word itself has been used in English since the 13th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"To be in the shadow of an eclipse"

Explanation:

To be overshadowed or surpassed by someone or something more impressive or exceptional.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing the term "eclipse" with other astronomical events like a meteor shower or a comet sighting.

Explanation:

An eclipse specifically refers to the blocking or obscuring of light, usually caused by the alignment of celestial bodies, whereas meteor showers and comet sightings involve other phenomena in the night sky.