- Definition: An eclipse is an astronomical event where one celestial body moves into the shadow of another celestial body, temporarily obscuring it. The most common types are solar eclipses, where the moon blocks the sun’s light from reaching Earth, and lunar eclipses, where the moon moves into Earth’s shadow.
- Etymology and Origin: The word “eclipse” comes from the Greek word “ékleipsis,” meaning “a forsaking, quitting, or disappearance.” It is derived from “ekleípō” which means “I cease to exist” or “I abandon.” The term was adopted into Middle English via Old French and Latin, initially referring to the specific astronomical event of the sun being obscured.