Definition

Noun: - An astronomical event where only a part of the Sun or Moon is obscured by the shadow of another celestial body. It occurs when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are not perfectly aligned in a straight line.

Usage

• The term is used to describe the specific type of eclipse where the obscuration is incomplete.
• It is often discussed in contrast to a "total eclipse."
• Example: "We observed a partial eclipse of the Sun yesterday."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The astronomy club organized a viewing event for the upcoming partial eclipse.
  • During a partial eclipse, it is never safe to look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection.

Advanced Usage

• "Partial eclipse of the Sun": Also called a partial solar eclipse. The Moon covers only a portion of the Sun's disk.
  • The next partial eclipse of the Sun will be visible from North America.
• "Partial eclipse of the Moon": Also called a partial lunar eclipse. Only a part of the Moon enters the Earth's umbral shadow.
  • A partial eclipse of the Moon will be visible tonight, with about 60% of its surface darkened.

Variants and Related Words

• Eclipse (n): The general event where one celestial body moves into the shadow of another.
• Total eclipse (n): An eclipse where the eclipsed body is completely obscured.
• Annular eclipse (n): A type of solar eclipse where the Moon covers the Sun's center, leaving a "ring of fire" visible.

Synonyms

• Incomplete eclipse: A less common synonym emphasizing the non-total nature of the event.

Related Phrases

• To see/observe a partial eclipse: To watch this astronomical event.
  • Thousands gathered to observe the partial eclipse.
• The path of the partial eclipse: The geographical region from which the eclipse is visible as partial.
  • Our city lies within the path of the partial eclipse.

Noun

1. an eclipse in which the eclipsed body is only partially obscured