What does sighted mean?
“Sighted” is an adjective meaning that someone has the ability to see, especially in contrast with someone who is blind or has limited vision. It can also function as a verb: “to sight” means to see, observe, or recognize something, often at a distance or as a result of careful looking. In contemporary English, the adjective is particularly frequent in discussions of accessibility, disability, and the experiences of blind and partially sighted people. The wording can be useful when a distinction is needed between having some sight and having no sight, although ordinary expressions such as “blind” and “visually impaired” may be preferred in some contexts. As a verb, “sighted” sounds less common and is especially associated with literary, nautical, military, or observational writing.
Having the ability to see; not blind. It may also refer to a person who has partial or limited vision.
"The exhibition was designed to be accessible to both sighted and visually impaired visitors."
The term is often used in accessibility and disability contexts, including the established phrase “partially sighted.”
To see or observe something, especially at a distance; to become aware of or recognize something.
"The lookout sighted land just before dawn."
This verb form is relatively uncommon and has a formal or literary tone.
The word “sighted” means having the ability to see, but in modern usage it is most often used when discussing access, accessibility, or the difference between having sight and being blind.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sighted come from?
The adjective and verb forms are derived from the English noun “sight” and the related verb “sight,” meaning to see or observe. “Sight” ultimately comes from Old English “sihþ,” a Germanic formation related to the English verb “see.” The same broad semantic and historical family includes words such as “vision,” “visible,” and “seeing,” although these have developed independently through different Germanic, Latin, and French pathways.
Related word forms
How sighted is actually used
As an adjective, “sighted” is especially common in formal and public discussions of accessibility and disability. In the phrase “partially sighted,” it describes a person who has some remaining vision but does not have normal sight. The verb form is less common in everyday English and tends to sound formal, literary, or technical.
Easily confused with sighted
No distinct modern word is commonly confused with this term; it should not be confused with “sight” or “sighting,” which are related forms of the same root.