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brownout

brown·out [ brówn òwt ] (plural brown·outs)


noun 
Definition:
 
1. dimming of lights: a dimming of lights or reduction in the use of electrical appliances in a city or region, especially as an economy measure

2. power reduction: a temporary reduction in electrical power caused by high consumer demand or by a technical malfunction

3. lapse of concentration: a temporary lapse of concentration or focus

[Mid-20th century. After blackout]
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