Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

eclipse

noun

/ɪˈklɪps/

Definition

An eclipse is an astronomical event that occurs when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another celestial body.

Examples

The solar eclipse captivated viewers across the country.
During the lunar eclipse, the moon appeared reddish in color.

Meaning

Eclipses can refer to both solar and lunar events. A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun’s light. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon, causing the Earth’s shadow to cover the moon.