blackout
n. countablen. a sudden loss of electricity or light in a large area. It can also mean a short time when you lose your memory or consciousness.
n. a period of total darkness resulting from a failure of electrical power or the deliberate extinguishing of lights. Also refers to a temporary loss of consciousness or memory, often induced by trauma or substance use.
The whole city went dark during the sudden blackout.
Storm damage to the main power lines caused a massive blackout that lasted for three days.
The government imposed a total media blackout during the sensitive negotiations to prevent any leaks that might compromise the safety of the hostages.
Deverbal from black out.
Commonly used with the verb 'to have' when referring to memory loss, or 'to experience' for power failures.