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Synonyms

bloodshot

American  
[bluhd-shot] / ˈblʌdˌʃɒt /

adjective

  1. (of the eyes) red because of dilated blood vessels.


bloodshot British  
/ ˈblʌdˌʃɒt /

adjective

  1. (of an eye) inflamed

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of bloodshot

1545–55; apocopated variant of blood-shotten. See blood, shotten

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Emotions take a back seat," he said, his eyes bloodshot after having worked with his colleagues throughout the night.

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

Delilah's other symptoms included bloodshot eyes, swollen fingers, skin peeling off her hands and feet, a rash, cracked lips and a swollen, red, bumpy tongue - known as strawberry tongue.

From BBC • Jan. 26, 2026

“Her hijab was off. Her eyes were bloodshot red. There were tears going down her cheeks. She was hunched over squealing,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2024

Balzak’s bloodshot, bulging eyes were locked on every movement of her hand as she took him through various activities designed to check his health and attitude.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 19, 2023

The legs and feet scrabbled madly, and he saw that its eyes were bloodshot, rolling with fright.

From "I'm the King of the Castle" by Susan Hill

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