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gimlet eye

American  

noun

  1. a sharp or piercing glance.

  2. an eye that appears to give a sharp or piercing look.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of gimlet eye

First recorded in 1815–25

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.

See Examples For:

But the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland keeps a gimlet eye on inflation data, and it has some estimates.

From MarketWatch Nov. 19, 2025

His Napoleon views the world with a gimlet eye and firmly compressed lips.

From Seattle Times Nov. 22, 2023

Crafting a coming-of-age story about a queer character enduring postcapitalism with a gimlet eye, the author is simultaneously hilarious, tender and meaningful.

From Los Angeles Times Dec. 4, 2022

The mission of Inside.com, which Andersen founded with Michael Hirschorn, was to report on the media, entertainment, and technology industries with a gimlet eye.

From Slate Aug. 1, 2021

However, Dad had a gimlet eye and a terrible swift sword.

From "Cheaper by the Dozen" by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

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