e·clipse
(i-klips)
(i-klips)n.
1.
a. The partial or complete obscuring, relative to a designated observer, of one celestial body by another.
b. The period of time during which such an obscuration occurs.
2. A temporary or permanent dimming or cutting off of light.
3.
a. A fall into obscurity or disuse; a decline:"A composer ... often goes into eclipse after his death and never regains popularity"(Time).
b. A disgraceful or humiliating end; a downfall:Revelations of wrongdoing helped bring about the eclipse of the governor's career.
tr.v.e·clipsed, e·clips·ing, e·clips·es
1.
a. To cause an eclipse of.
b. To obscure; darken.
2.
a. To obscure or diminish in importance, fame, or reputation.
b. To surpass; outshine:an outstanding performance that eclipsed the previous record.
[Middle English, fromOld French, fromLatineclipsis, fromGreekekleipsis, fromekleipein, to fail to appear, suffer an eclipse : ek-, out; see ECTO– + leipein, to leave; see leikw- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.]
eclipsesolar eclipse