blinker

[bling-ker]

noun

1. a device for flashing light signals.

2. a light that flashes intermittently, especially one that serves as a traffic signal.

3. either of two leather flaps on a bridle, to prevent a horse from seeing sideways; a blinder.

verb (used with object)

1. to put blinkers on.

blinker

/ ˈblɪŋkə /

noun

1. a flashing light for sending messages, as a warning device, etc, such as a direction indicator on a road vehicle

2. (often plural) a slang word for eye 1

verb

1. to provide (a horse) with blinkers

2. to obscure with or as if with blinkers

Word History and Origins

Origin of blinker¹

First recorded in 1630–40; blink + -er ¹

Example Sentences

It’s so infected with falsehoods, misrepresentations and ideological blinkers that it will only subject the health of American children to the greatest risk they’ve faced in, yes, American history.

From Los Angeles Times

But campaigners have claimed the report was "half-baked" and the government was "blinkered" about the importance of pylons.

From BBC

If only the whole story had been told from Låke’s curious and blinkered perspective, “The Colony” might have ended up more show than tell, and the more eloquent for it.

From Los Angeles Times

She accuses politicians of being blinkered by a desire to transform Paris into a cyclists' paradise - ignoring road safety.

From BBC

This was a blinkered view of reproductive healthcare rights, however.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• alarm 
• beacon 
• cue 
• gesture 
• indicator 
• sign