Eclipsed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒ’
Add to dictionary

eclipsed

[ษชหˆklษชpst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

astrophysics

To have an eclipse means to obscure the light from one celestial body by another. In a more figurative sense, it can also refer to overshadowing someone or something. The term is commonly used to describe the phenomena when the moon passes between the earth and the sun, blocking sunlight.

Synonyms

hidden, obscured, shadowed.

Examples of usage

  • The moon eclipsed the sun during the solar event.
  • Her achievements eclipsed those of her predecessors.
  • The star was eclipsed by a nearby planet.
Context #2 | Verb

figurative

Eclipsed can describe a situation in which someone or something is overshadowed or made less important by another. This uses the metaphor of an eclipse to illustrate a dominance in attention or significance.

Synonyms

diminished, overshadowed, surpassed.

Examples of usage

  • His talents eclipsed all other contenders in the competition.
  • The scandal eclipsed her previous accomplishments.
  • In the debate, one speaker eclipsed the others with his strong arguments.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'eclipsed'

The word 'eclipse' originates from the Latin term 'eclipsare', which itself came from the Greek 'ekleipsis', meaning 'to abandon, forsake or a downfall'. This Greek term is formed by the prefix 'ek-' which means 'away' or 'out' and 'leipล' meaning 'to leave' or 'to fail'. The use of 'eclipse' in the context of astronomy refers to the disappearance of a celestial body from view, particularly when one body passes over another. Over centuries, the significance of eclipses has evolved; they were once seen as omens in many cultures. However, with advancements in scientific understanding, they are now appreciated for their astronomical beauty and rarity. The term has also taken on a metaphorical sense, capturing the essence of one thing overshadowing another.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,142, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.