Eclipse

Sunday, June 8, 2025
Word of the Day

What is Eclipse?

noun
An obscuring of light from one celestial body by the passage of another between it and the observer.

Pronunciation

US pronunciation: /ɪˈklɪps/
UK pronunciation: /ɪˈklɪps/
Slow pronunciation: ih-KLIPS

Meaning Explained

Eclipse refers not only to the astronomical event where the sun or moon is temporarily hidden, but also symbolically to any overshadowing or fading — of fame, hope, power, or love.

Why This Word?

Chosen for its layered meaning: an awe-inspiring event in the sky, and a haunting metaphor for transformation, loss, or renewal.

Examples of Use

Here's how this word appears in everyday language:

  • The total eclipse lasted just under three minutes.
  • After years of fame, the writer faded into eclipse.
  • Her smile returned like sunlight after an eclipse.

Word Origins

Greek ekleipsis, from ekleipein meaning “to fail to appear, to be hidden”

Historically seen as omens; now studied scientifically, but still inspire awe and artistic metaphor.

First appearance in English: 14th century

Word Family

Related forms of this word:

  • Verb: eclipse

    Her new performance eclipsed all previous roles.

  • Noun: shadow

    The city fell under the shadow of doubt.

  • Adjective: eclipsed

    He felt eclipsed by his more extroverted peers.

Around the World

How this word appears in other languages:

  • Spanish: eclipse
  • French: éclipse
  • German: Finsternis
  • Italian: eclissi
  • Portuguese: eclipse

If you Already Know This Word

If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:

Obscuration

“Obscuration” is technical; “eclipse” is visual and metaphorical.

Fall

“Fall” implies failure; “eclipse” may be temporary, beautiful, or cyclical.

Fade

“Fade” suggests slow loss; “eclipse” implies sudden overshadowing.

Fun Facts

  • Eclipses helped prove Einstein’s theory of general relativity in 1919.
  • The longest possible duration of a total solar eclipse is 7 minutes and 32 seconds.

Cultural Usage

  • A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow.
  • Ancient cultures believed eclipses were caused by celestial dragons or gods battling in the heavens.

Common Mistakes

Often confused with “occultation,” which is a technical term in astronomy; “eclipse” carries more symbolic and emotional weight.

Micro Story

The solar eclipse darkened the sky — and left the crowd in reverent silence.