eclipse

/iˈklɪps/

noun

  1. 1

    An alignment of astronomical objects whereby one object comes between the observer (or notional observer) and another object, thus obscuring the latter.

  2. 2

    Especially, an alignment whereby a planetary object (for example, the Moon) comes between the Sun and another planetary object (for example, the Earth), resulting in a shadow being cast by the middle planetary object onto the other planetary object.

  3. 3

    A seasonal state of plumage in some birds, notably ducks, adopted temporarily after the breeding season and characterised by a dull and scruffy appearance.

  4. 4

    Obscurity, decline, downfall

verb

  1. 1

    Of astronomical bodies, to cause an eclipse.

    The Moon eclipsed the Sun.
  2. 2

    To overshadow; to be better or more noticeable than.

  3. 3

    (Irish grammar) To undergo eclipsis.

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