Definition

Noun: 1. A partial reduction in electrical power, typically resulting in dimmed lights: A brownout is a drop in voltage in an electrical power supply system, often intentionally caused by a utility company to prevent a complete blackout during periods of high demand. It causes lights to dim and can cause electronic equipment to malfunction. 2. A period of reduced illumination or activity: By extension, it can describe any situation where there is a significant reduction in normal lighting or operational intensity.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The city experienced a two-hour brownout last night due to the heatwave.
  • During the brownout, the lights flickered and my computer shut down unexpectedly.
  • The theater performed the scene under a brownout to create a somber mood.

Advanced Usage

• "to impose a brownout": For a utility company to deliberately initiate a reduction in power.
  • The energy provider may impose a brownout if consumption reaches critical levels.
• "rolling brownout": A series of temporary, controlled reductions in power affecting different areas in sequence.
  • The region is under a schedule of rolling brownouts until the power plant is repaired.

Variants and Related Words

• Blackout (n): A complete loss of electrical power.
  • A blackout is more severe than a brownout, as all power is lost.
• Brown (v, informal): To cause a dimming of lights due to a voltage drop.
  • The air conditioner browned the lights in the entire house when it turned on.

Synonyms

• Dimout: A reduction in lighting, often for safety or security purposes.
• Voltage drop: The technical term for the decrease in electrical potential.
• Power sag: A short-duration reduction in voltage.

Related Phrases

• Power conservation measure: A formal term for actions like brownouts taken to save energy.
  • The brownout was a necessary power conservation measure.

Notes on Meaning

The term originates from the dimming or "browning" of incandescent lights when voltage decreases. It is distinct from a blackout, which is a total power failure. While the reference context mentions "darkness... invisible to enemy aircraft," this is a specific, historical application of the concept (a dimout for wartime security), not the primary modern meaning related to electrical grid management.

Noun

1. darkness resulting from the extinction of lights (as in a city invisible to enemy aircraft)