Langimage
English

eclipse

|e/clipse|

B2

/ɪˈklɪps/

obscuring light

Etymology
Etymology Information

'eclipse' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ekleipsis,' where 'ek-' meant 'out' and 'leipein' meant 'to leave.'

Historical Evolution

'ekleipsis' transformed into the Latin word 'eclipsis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'eclipse' through Old French.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a failure to appear,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'obscuring of light.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an astronomical event where one celestial body moves into the shadow of another.

The solar eclipse was visible from several continents.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to obscure or block out light from another celestial body.

The moon eclipsed the sun during the solar eclipse.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to surpass or outshine someone or something.

Her performance eclipsed all others in the competition.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39