blindside

[blahynd-sahyd]

verb (used with object)

blindsided, blindsiding 

1. Sports.,  to tackle, hit, or attack (an opponent) from the blind side.

   The quarterback was blindsided and had the ball knocked out of his hand.

2. to attack critically where a person is vulnerable, uninformed, etc..

   The president was blindsided by the press on the latest tax bill.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blindside¹

First recorded in 1970–75; verb use of noun phrase blind side

Example Sentences

Some of those who knew Toner-Rodgers said they were blindsided by the news.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Colombia's security services said they were blindsided by Petro's initial order, which was issued in the evening on social media.

Read more on Barron's

French authorities were blindsided as thieves of all stripes, from lone wolves to organized groups, made quick work of its museums.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The move shocked most people involved with the NBA, and Dallas fans felt blindsided.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s more than fair to say that this dust-up isn’t a new development that is blindsiding investors.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• bump 
• concussion 
• impact 
• jab 
• jolt 
• kick 
• punch 
• shock 
• slap 
• stroke 
• uppercut