Definition

The act of one celestial body passing in front of another, blocking it from view, often used in astronomy to describe events like eclipses.

Example

The occultation of the star by the moon was visible from our location last night.

Conversation

Did you hear about the lunar occultation happening this weekend?

Yeah, I read about it! It sounds pretty cool.

I can't wait to see how the moon covers the stars during the occultation.

Same here! We should grab some snacks and watch it together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Occultation → It is formed from "occultus" (meaning hidden) and the suffix "-ation" (indicating a process or action). The word "occultation" refers to the process of something being hidden or obscured, particularly in an astronomical context where one celestial body obscures another.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'hidden' ('occultus') during a process ('-ation') — that's why occultation means the act of hiding or obscuring something.

Visually Confused Words