annular eclipse: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “annular eclipse” mean?
A solar eclipse in which the moon covers the centre of the sun, leaving a bright ring (annulus) of sunlight visible around the moon's dark disk.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A solar eclipse in which the moon covers the centre of the sun, leaving a bright ring (annulus) of sunlight visible around the moon's dark disk.
A specific type of central solar eclipse where the apparent size of the moon is slightly smaller than that of the sun, resulting in a 'ring of fire' effect. It is a precise astronomical event with predictable timing and geographic path.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling of related terms may differ (e.g., 'centre' vs. 'center').
Connotations
Identical scientific connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally rare in general discourse but standard in astronomical contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “annular eclipse” in a Sentence
The [annular eclipse] [verb: was visible, occurred, passed over] [location].Scientists [verb: predicted, studied] the [annular eclipse].An [annular eclipse] happens when [clause].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “annular eclipse” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The annular phase lasted nearly five minutes.
- We calculated the annular path across the Atlantic.
American English
- The annular phase lasted almost five minutes.
- We calculated the annular path across the Atlantic.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in travel/tourism for eclipse-chasing tours.
Academic
Standard in astronomy, astrophysics, and earth science curricula and papers.
Everyday
Used in news reports about astronomical events or in hobbyist astronomy discussions.
Technical
Precise term in astronomy, navigation, and celestial mechanics with defined parameters (e.g., magnitude, saros cycle).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “annular eclipse”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “annular eclipse”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “annular eclipse”
- Pronouncing 'annular' as 'annual-er'.
- Using 'anular' (misspelling).
- Confusing it with a 'total eclipse' where the sun is completely covered.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The remaining 'ring of fire' is intensely bright sunlight and can cause permanent eye damage. Proper solar viewing filters are essential.
Annular eclipses are slightly more frequent than total solar eclipses, occurring about every 1-2 years somewhere on Earth, but recurrence at any specific location is very rare.
In a total eclipse, the moon completely blocks the sun's disk. In an annular eclipse, the moon is farther from Earth and appears slightly smaller, leaving a ring of the sun's photosphere visible.
Yes, in a rare 'hybrid eclipse', the eclipse can appear annular from some locations along its path and total from others, due to the curvature of the Earth.
A solar eclipse in which the moon covers the centre of the sun, leaving a bright ring (annulus) of sunlight visible around the moon's dark disk.
Annular eclipse is usually technical / scientific in register.
Annular eclipse: in British English it is pronounced /ˈænjʊlə(r) ɪˈklɪps/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈænjələr əˈklɪps/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine the word 'annual' – an annular eclipse doesn't happen annually, but it forms an annual (ring-shaped) ring of light.
Conceptual Metaphor
A CELESTIAL RING (the sun's ring as jewellery), A COSMIC ALIGNMENT (precision of orbits).
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining visual feature of an annular solar eclipse?