brownout

noun6

1. •
   A period of low alternating current line voltage, causing a reduction in illumination.

   • When demand for electricity exceeds the available supply, a brownout occurs.
2. •
   (figurative) A moment or period where something is weakened, diminished or less effective.
3. •
   A power outage during the day; distinguished from a blackout, which occurs at night.
4. •
   (Australia, Philippines) A blackout, regardless of time of day.
5. •
   A temporary dimming of vision, usually with a brown hue and accompanied by loss of peripheral vision or tunnel vision.

   • On rising suddenly from her chair she experienced a brownout and had to sit down again quickly.
6. •
   A temporary closing of a fire station, usually due to budget restrictions.

   • Fire departments across the country have been forced to rely on rolling brownouts because of the recession.