A partial reduction of electric power supply over a wide area, causing dimmed lights and reduced electrical service.
From 'brown' referring to the brownish or dimmed appearance of lights during power reduction, plus 'out' suggesting a power outage; coined in mid-20th century America to distinguish from total blackouts.
The term 'brownout' was born during the 1960s-70s American energy crisis, and it's a perfect example of how technology creates new words we need—similar to how 'blackout' came first, then someone realized they needed a word for 'almost blackout.'
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.