eclipse

e|clipse1 [ ı`klıps ] noun

1. ) count a short period when all or part of the Sun or Moon becomes dark, because of the positions of the Sun, Moon, and Earth in relation to each other. A total eclipse is when the Sun or Moon is completely covered. An eclipse of the Sun is called a solar eclipse, and an eclipse of the Moon is called a lunar eclipse.

2. ) singular or uncount a time when someone or something starts to seem less successful or important, because another person or thing has become more successful or important than they are:

The rise of one aristocratic family usually meant the eclipse of another.

be in eclipse: Their political power was in eclipse at the time.

eclipse

e|clipse 2 [ ı`klıps ] verb transitive

1. ) to make someone or something seem less successful or important, by becoming more successful or important than they are:

This tragic accident has eclipsed the two railroad disasters last year.

His performance was eclipsed by Francisco's winning home run.

2. ) to make the Sun or Moon become partly or completely dark because of the position of the Sun, Moon, and Earth in relation to each other