middle distance

noun

1. Also called middle ground, Fine Arts. the represented space between the foreground and background in paintings, drawings, etc.
2. (in track) a race distance ranging from 400 meters or 440 yards to 1 mile.

middle-distance

adjective

1. athletics relating to or denoting races of a length between the sprints and the distance events, esp the 800 metres and the 1500 metres

noun

1. Also calledmiddle ground part of a painting, esp a landscape between the foreground and far distance

Word History and Origins

Origin of middle distance¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

Norris clung to Verstappen like a limpet and then overtook him with imperious ease before the first pit stops, cruising off into the middle distance thereafter.

From BBC

“To see this entire world, do this literally: Mold the play into a medium-sized ball, set it before you in the middle distance, and squint your eyes,” she wrote.

From New York Times

After hearing the bad news, Mr. Hill walks in a daze on the ship’s deck, eyes lost in the middle distance, the official regalia of his captain’s outfit rendered absurd.

From New York Times

Their mothers sit silently at their beds, staring into the middle distance, clutching their infants to their breast, hoping what milk they have can deliver the salvation for which they yearn.

From BBC

He stared into the middle distance and scrolled through his phone.

From Seattle Times