Meaning

(electricity) A period of low alternating current line voltage, causing a reduction in illumination..

Definitions by Sense

1. (electricity) A period of low alternating current line voltage, causing a reduction in illumination.
2. A temporary dimming of vision, usually with a brown hue and accompanied by loss of peripheral vision or tunnel vision.
3. (firefighting) A temporary closing of a fire station, usually due to budget restrictions.
4. A power outage during the day; distinguished from a blackout, which occurs at night.
5. (figurative, uncommon) A moment or period where something is weakened, diminished or less effective.
6. (Philippines, Australia, Hong Kong) A blackout, regardless of time of day.

Example Sentences

When demand for electricity exceeds the available supply, a brownout occurs.

On rising suddenly from her chair she experienced a brownout and had to sit down again quickly.

Fire departments across the country have been forced to rely on rolling brownouts because of the recession.

Remember that you can't send or receive a fax if there is a brownout. ... Due to blackouts (the Philippine term is brownout), especially during the dry season, be prepared with a flashlight and don't forget to save your data in your PC.

Word Forms

• brownouts
• brown out
• brown-out

Synonyms for brown out

Related Words

When Should You Use Brown out?

Use brown out when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

Practice This Word

Frequently Asked Questions