brownout

[broun-out] /ˈbraʊnˌaʊt/
noun
1.
the elimination of some or reduction of all electric lights of a city, especially as a precaution against attack in time of war.
2.
any curtailment of electric power, as by a severe storm.
Origin
1940-45; brown + out, on the model of blackout
Can be confused
blackout, brownout.
Examples from the web for brownout
  • Still, this kind of offensive brownout is rare for this team.
  • brownout and whiteout conditions are especially dangerous.
  • brownout means a disruption of electrical or other similar power source for any reason.
British Dictionary definitions for brownout

brownout

/ˈbraʊnˌaʊt/
noun (mainly US)
1.
a dimming or reduction in the use of electric lights in a city, esp to conserve electric power or as a defensive precaution in wartime
2.
a temporary reduction in electrical power Compare blackout (sense 3)
3.
a temporary slowing down of the workings of the internet caused when too many users attempt to access it at the same time
brownout in Culture

brownout definition


A situation in which the voltage in a power grid is reduced below its normal level but not entirely eliminated. (Compare blackout.)

Note: This reduced voltage can result in damage to many electronic devices.