Definition

Verb: 1. To completely obscure, conceal, or obliterate: To make something undecipherable, imperceptible, or invisible by covering it, hiding it, or destroying it. 2. To erase from memory or consciousness: To suppress or try to forget a memory, thought, or feeling.

Usage

The verb "blot out" is used to describe the action of making something disappear or become unreadable/unrecognizable, either physically or mentally. It often implies a deliberate or forceful act of covering or erasing. - It is typically used with an object (a transitive verb). - Common structures: "blot out [something]" or "[something] is blotted out."

Examples

• Physical Obscuring:
  • The thick fog blotted out the sun.
  • He used a marker to blot out the sensitive information in the document.
• Mental Suppression:
  • She tried to blot out the painful memories of the accident.
  • He blotted out all thoughts of failure and focused on the task.

Advanced Usage

• "to blot someone/something out": Can imply a complete and often violent destruction or removal.
  • The bombing raid aimed to blot out the entire village from the map.
• Used in a figurative sense to describe overwhelming something else.
  • The loud music blotted out all other sounds in the room.

Variants and Related Words

• Blot (verb): To stain or spot; to dry with an absorbent material. (e.g., )
• Obliterate (verb): To destroy completely; to wipe out. A stronger synonym.
• Efface (verb): To erase or make indistinct; to make oneself inconspicuous.

Synonyms

• Obscure
• Conceal
• Eradicate
• Expunge
• Veil

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Block out: To prevent light or sound from entering; to plan or sketch roughly. (e.g., / )
  • Note: "Block out" can be similar to "blot out" for physical obscuring but is more neutral. "Blot out" often carries a connotation of eradication.

Related Idioms

• A blot on the landscape: Something that spoils the appearance of a place.
  • The old factory was a blot on the landscape.
• A blot on one's escutcheon: A stain on one's reputation or honor. (Formal/archaic)
  • The scandal was a blot on the family's escutcheon.

Verb

1. make undecipherable or imperceptible by obscuring or concealing
   • a hidden message
   • a veiled threat