eclipse

/iˈklɪps/

Group 12Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(verb)
To obscure or block out; to surpass in importance or achievement
GRE

Example in Context

The young pianist's virtuosity quickly eclipsed that of her more experienced rivals on the international competition circuit.

Synonyms

outshinesurpassovershadow

Etymology

To obscure or overshadow something, leaving it out of view.

  • eclipsis (Greek) — to leave out

Memory Aid

🌒Sounds like “e-clipse

When a giant e-CLIP takes over the sun, everything gets dark and spooky!

Visual Association

🌗The moon covering the sun completely, causing a dramatic drop in light and temperature.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “eclipse” mean on the GRE?

eclipse (verb) means “To obscure or block out; to surpass in importance or achievement”. The young pianist's virtuosity quickly eclipsed that of her more experienced rivals on the international competition circuit.

How to remember “eclipse” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “eclipse” sounds like “e-clipse”. When a giant e-CLIP takes over the sun, everything gets dark and spooky!

What are synonyms for “eclipse”?

Common synonyms: outshine, surpass, overshadow.