brownout

noun

brown·​out ˈbrau̇-ˌnau̇t How to pronounce brownout (audio)
Synonyms of brownoutnext
: a period of reduced voltage of electricity caused especially by high demand and resulting in reduced illumination

Examples of brownout in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There were no blackouts, no brownouts. — Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2026 Cars will quickly overheat, and power outages and rolling brownouts are possible. — Tammie Souza, CBS News, 28 June 2026 In certain states, an overwhelming grid demand can result in power outages or brownouts. — Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 22 Apr. 2026 Check whether your lodging will have reliable conditioning and whether the region has had recent power blackouts or brownouts. — ABC News, 8 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for brownout

Word History

Etymology

brown + blackout

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of brownout was in 1942

Rhymes for brownout

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Browse Nearby Words

brown ore
brownout
brown owl
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Brownout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brownout. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

brownout

noun
brown·​out ˈbrau̇-ˌnau̇t How to pronounce brownout (audio)
: a reduction in the use or availability of electric power
also : a period of dimmed lighting resulting from such reduction

More from Merriam-Webster on brownout

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