Varjutama

Varjutama is an Estonian verb meaning to eclipse or to overshadow. It denotes the act of blocking or reducing light, either literally, when an object passes in front of another, or figuratively, when something dominates or diminishes another thing. The word is built from varju meaning shadow and the infinitive suffix -tama.

In astronomy, varjutama describes the moment when one celestial body moves between another body and the observer, causing an eclipse. The event itself is referred to by the noun varjutus. Solar and lunar eclipses are described using the same verb, for example: the Moon eclipses the Sun can be translated as Kuu varjutab Päikese. The construction can be used with light-shading contexts as well, such as clouds eclipsing the sun: Pilved varjutasid päikese.

In a figurative sense, varjutama can express overshadowing or diminishing non-physical qualities or achievements. For instance, a prominent figure’s success may varjutada teisi; an effect of one competitor or idea overshadowing others can be described with the same verb. This usage conveys a sense of dominance or attenuation rather than physical darkness.

Etymology and related terms: varjutama derives from varju, shadow, with the -tama infinitive suffix. The noun form varjutus denotes the event or act of an eclipse. Related concepts include varjund (shade or nuance) and other expressions that indicate shading or dimming.

See also: varjutus, varju, varjund.