WordValeeclipse
the blocking of light when one body passes before another
In more detail
1. (noun) an occasion when the moon passes in front of the sun and blocks its light, or when the earth's shadow covers the moon
2. (noun) a sudden loss of importance, power, or success
3. (verb) to make something seem less important or impressive by being better or more successful
Examples
- During a solar eclipse, the sky becomes dark in the middle of the day.
- The rise of smartphones caused an eclipse of traditional cameras.
- Her talent eclipsed that of all the other singers in the competition.
How to use eclipse
As a noun, eclipse primarily refers to the astronomical phenomenon or metaphorically to a loss of prominence. As a verb, it means to make someone or something seem less important or impressive, often through superior performance. It carries a sense of temporary or dramatic displacement rather than permanent replacement.
Common phrases
- solar eclipse
- lunar eclipse
- eclipse the competition
- eclipse someone's achievements
- total eclipse
- partial eclipse
Synonyms
obscure · overshadow · outshine · surpass · diminish
Word family
eclipsed · eclipsing · eclipses
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse eclipse with elapse; eclipse involves blocking or overshadowing, while elapse means time passing.
Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.
Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD