Eclipse: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to a phenomenon where one celestial body moves into the shadow of another celestial body, typically involving the sun, moon, or earth. It can be used metaphorically to describe the overshadowing of something.

• The solar eclipse mesmerized everyone when the moon completely covered the sun.
• The young football player's talent quickly eclipsed his older teammate's reputation.

A specific term in astronomy referring to the path that the sun takes through the sky over the course of a year, as observed from Earth. It is also used as a reference plane for locating astronomical objects.

• Astronomers chart the positions of planets along the ecliptic.
• The zodiac signs are aligned with the constellations along the ecliptic.

Describes an astronomical event where one object is hidden by another that passes between it and the observer, often used in more scientific or technical discussions.

• The occultation of the star by the moon provided valuable data for astronomers.
• Occultations can offer insight into the size and shape of distant planets.

Used mostly in the context of astronomy or when one thing blocks or makes another thing less visible or important.

• The solar eclipse was visible across the continent.
• Her performance might eclipse all the other contestants.

Used when someone or something performs better or radiates more than another, often in a positive and competitive context.

• At the talent show, she managed to outshine her competitors.
• The young actor outshone the veteran stars in the film.

Used when someone or something exceeds or goes beyond a certain standard or level, often in a neutral or formal context.

• His achievements in science surpass those of any other student in the class.
• The new model surpasses its predecessor in terms of design and performance.