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 is actually the blinkered thinking, or rather non-thinking of the new national security mandarins about to ascend to the highest levels of government that most promises to place America's future in jeopardy.

From Salon

What is not supposed to happen is you turning on your left blinker light.

From Seattle Times

They say - and his home secretary of just the other day Suella Braverman is among them - that he was too blinkered for too long in believing Plan A would work.

From BBC

However, a 1986 voter referendum was foiled by populist progressives who expressed a “blinkered resistance to anything that might perhaps be harmful,” King writes.

From Los Angeles Times

This blinkered attitude more than anything explains the decline in Mass attendance.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

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