What does blinkered mean?
The word blinkered has its roots in the noun 'blinker', which refers to a device that covers a horse's eyes to prevent it from being distracted. Over time, the term took on a metaphorical meaning, describing someone who is narrow-minded or lacking in vision. In British English, blinkered is often used to describe someone who is close-minded or unwilling to consider alternative perspectives. In American English, it is more commonly used to describe a horse wearing blinkers. The word is often used in a negative sense, implying a lack of creativity or vision. However, it can also be used in a more neutral sense to describe someone who is focused on a particular task or goal. Overall, blinkered is a useful word for describing someone who is lacking in vision or perspective.
Having or characterized by blinkers, especially on a horse, or being narrow-minded or lacking in vision.
"The blinkered approach to problem-solving led to a lack of creative solutions."
In British English, blinkered is often used to describe someone who is narrow-minded or lacking in vision, while in American English, it is more commonly used to describe a horse wearing blinkers.
A device that covers a horse's eyes to prevent it from being distracted.
"The horse wore a blinker to prevent it from being distracted by other animals."
This sense of the word is more commonly used in American English.
The plural form of blinkered is the same as the singular form, as it is an uncountable noun.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of blinkered
The word blinkered originated in the 17th century from the noun 'blinker', which referred to a device that covered a horse's eyes to prevent it from being distracted. The term took on a metaphorical meaning in the 19th century, describing someone who was narrow-minded or lacking in vision. The word is related to the verb 'blink', which means to close one's eyes quickly.
How blinkered is actually used
In British English, blinkered is often used to describe someone who is narrow-minded or lacking in vision, while in American English, it is more commonly used to describe a horse wearing blinkers.