Dim-out

A 'dim-out' is a controlled reduction in lighting, often implemented for security, conservation, or aesthetic purposes. It involves lowering light levels significantly from normal operation, but not necessarily to complete darkness. The objective can range from preventing enemy detection during wartime to reducing light pollution and energy consumption. Dim-outs can apply to both interior and exterior lighting and can be achieved through various means, including using lower wattage bulbs, shielding lights to direct their beams downwards, and the selective switching off of lights entirely. The term can also extend metaphorically to situations involving the suppression or obscuring of information, knowledge, or visibility. The duration of a dim-out can vary, lasting from brief periods to extended time frames depending on the situation and goal.

Dim-out meaning with examples

• During the coastal city's wartime dim-out, all streetlights and residential lights were minimized to prevent enemy bombers from identifying targets. The public was instructed to cover windows to further restrict light emissions. Civilian life was disrupted, but security was the utmost priority and these precautions, including air raid drills, proved useful for the city's defense.
• To combat excessive light pollution, several cities implemented a dim-out policy, requiring businesses to turn off their external signage lighting after midnight. This initiative helped to preserve dark skies, promoting nocturnal wildlife health and the visibility of celestial objects. Residents could see the stars!
• The city museum imposed a dim-out in a specific wing to preserve the delicate artwork. The reduced lighting protected the art from fading and degradation. This action also gave a more dramatic feel to the space.
• The energy-saving campaign's recommended dim-out involved installing timers on outdoor lights in order to reduce energy consumption during peak hours when the outdoor lights may not be in use, like the very early morning and when people are at work and/or asleep. The overall light levels were significantly reduced, without compromising safety.
• The company's CEO ordered a data dim-out following the cyberattack, restricting access to sensitive information for most employees. This was done to contain the data breach and safeguard the company's critical systems, prioritizing security and mitigating potential damage before restoring the light.