Blackout: meaning, definitions and examples

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blackout

[ ˈblakˌaʊt ]

^{Context #1}

power outage

A blackout refers to a complete loss of electrical power in a specific area. This can be caused by various factors such as severe weather conditions, equipment failure, or intentional actions. During a blackout, all electrical devices stop working, leading to disruption in daily activities.

Synonyms

brownout, electricity failure, power outage

Examples of usage

The city experienced a blackout last night due to a severe storm.
During the blackout, people had to rely on candles for light.

^{Context #2}

memory loss

In a medical context, a blackout can also refer to a temporary loss of consciousness or memory. This can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption or a medical condition. During a blackout, the individual may not remember events that occurred during that time.

Synonyms

amnesia, loss of consciousness, memory lapse

Examples of usage

He had a blackout after drinking too much at the party.
She experienced blackouts as a result of her medical condition.

^{Context #3}

to lose consciousness

To blackout as a verb means to lose consciousness suddenly. This can happen due to various reasons such as extreme fatigue, emotional distress, or physical injury. When someone blacks out, they may not remember what happened during that period of unconsciousness.

Synonyms

faint, lose consciousness, pass out

Examples of usage

The athlete blacked out after a hard fall during the game.
She blacked out from exhaustion after working long hours.

Translations

Translations of the word "blackout" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apagão

🇮🇳 बिजली गुल

🇩🇪 Stromausfall

🇮🇩 pemadaman listrik

🇺🇦 відключення електрики

🇵🇱 zaciemnienie

🇯🇵 停電 (ていでん)

🇫🇷 coupure de courant

🇪🇸 apagón

🇹🇷 elektrik kesintisi

🇰🇷 정전

🇸🇦 انقطاع التيار الكهربائي

🇨🇿 výpadek proudu

🇸🇰 výpadok prúdu

🇨🇳 停电 (tíngdiàn)

🇸🇮 izpad elektrike

🇮🇸 rafmagnsleysi

🇰🇿 электр қуатының өшуі

🇬🇪 ელექტროენერგიის გათიშვა

🇦🇿 elektrik kəsilməsi

🇲🇽 apagón

Word origin

The term 'blackout' originated in the early 20th century, initially used to describe the extinguishing of lights for military purposes during World War II to avoid detection by enemy aircraft. Over time, the term expanded to include the loss of electrical power in civilian contexts. The word 'blackout' carries connotations of sudden darkness and the loss of awareness, reflecting its historical and modern usage.