myopic

[mahy-op-ik, -oh-pik]

adjective

1. Ophthalmology.,  pertaining to or having myopia; nearsighted.

2. unable or unwilling to act prudently; shortsighted.

3. lacking tolerance or understanding; narrow-minded.

Other Word Forms

• myopically adverb
• nonmyopic adjective
• nonmyopically adverb
• unmyopic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of myopic¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; myop(ia) + -ic

Example Sentences

But recall that the Smithsonian’s mission was and is “the increase and diffusion of knowledge” — not advancing a particular understanding of America’s racial past or even to celebrate a myopic view our founding.

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Bertoldi’s albums have been nominated three times in the past, but the rock and alternative fields are simply too narrow and myopic for this brash, self-produced gem.

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Americans are so myopic about their own history, if not downright ignorant, that some minorities think they’re being welcomed into the Heritage Americans fold by Vance and his ilk.

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Lyonne’s consistently myopic defense demonstrates an almost childish reluctance to listen, one that has painted an increasingly confusing picture now that Lyonne is moving into directing.

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So not understanding and having that myopic view or wish now, being 61 — I have three children, I have a career, I have a foundation, I have a husband.

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Related Words

• nearsighted 
• shortsighted