Definition

1. Noun:

   • A device that limits vision: A blinker is a piece of leather or other material attached to a horse's bridle to prevent it from seeing sideways, keeping it focused forward.
   • A flashing light signal: A blinker is a light on a vehicle that flashes to indicate the driver's intention to turn left or right.
   • A general flashing light: A blinker can be any light that flashes on and off, used as a signal or to send a message.

2. Verb:

   • To fit with blinders: To blinker means to put blinkers (blindfolds) on a horse.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The horse wore blinkers to stay calm in the busy street.
  • Don't forget to use your blinkers before changing lanes.
  • The lighthouse sent its warning with a powerful blinker.

• Verb:

  • The trainer decided to blinker the nervous young horse.

Advanced Usage

• "To be blinkered" (figurative, adjective): Having a limited perspective or being narrow-minded.
  • His blinkered view prevented him from seeing the merits of the new proposal.

Variants and Related Words

• Blinkered (adj): Literally, wearing blinkers. Figuratively, having a limited outlook.
• Blink (verb): To open and close the eyes quickly. A blinker is something that causes a blinking effect or limits sight.

Synonyms

• Noun (for horse gear): Blinder, winker.
• Noun (for light): Turn signal, indicator, flasher, flashing light.

Related Phrases

• Put on the blinkers: To adopt a narrow focus, ignoring wider issues.
  • We need to think creatively, not put on the blinkers and follow the old method.

Idioms

• To have blinkers on: To be unaware of or ignore important factors around you due to a narrow focus.
  • He has blinkers on when it comes to his favorite project; he doesn't see the problems it's causing.

Noun

1. blind consisting of a leather eyepatch sewn to the side of the halter that prevents a horse from seeing something on either side
2. a blinking light on a motor vehicle that indicates the direction in which the vehicle is about to turn
3. a light that flashes on and off; used as a signal or to send messages

Verb

1. put blinders on (a horse)