blinker

American  

[bling-ker] / ˈblɪŋ kər /

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.

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verb (used with object)

1. to put blinkers on.

blinker British  

/ 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

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verb

1. to provide (a horse) with blinkers

2. to obscure with or as if with blinkers

Etymology

Origin of blinker

First recorded in 1630–40; blink + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Back on the other side of town back near Union Station, two cars stopped at the station with their blinkers on during a Thursday afternoon stop.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr. Broderick, himself a sometime movie star, brings a slyly funny air of noblesse oblige that dovetails amusingly with Jay’s pompous, blinkered dimness.

From The Wall Street Journal

“It seems that Mrs. Blythe is accusing you of . . .” Mrs. Kuen blinkered her eyelids and cleared a catch in her throat.

From Literature

Rome’s blinkered position on war didn’t originate with Pope Leo XIV.

From The Wall Street Journal

She pulls into the road, her blinker clicking.

From Literature

Related Words

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