blind spot

noun

1

a

: the small circular area at the back of the retina where the optic nerve enters the eyeball and which is devoid of rods and cones and is not sensitive to light

called also optic disc

see eye illustration

b

: a portion of a field that cannot be seen or inspected with available equipment

2

: an area in which one fails to exercise judgment or discrimination

Examples of blind spot in a Sentence

When driving on the highway, you need to make sure no one is in your blind spot before changing lanes.

She has a blind spot concerning her son's behavior.

Recent Examples on the Web

Spot your blind spots early, then find your future focus for maximum impact. —Jodie Cook, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025

The Alaska story represents Perkins’ tireless brainstorming of ways to help and also, perhaps, her blind spot to a more sinister history of American settler colonialism. —Sara Georgini, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Jan. 2025

However, this arrangement also creates a blind spot directly in front of their noses and behind their tails. —Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 17 Jan. 2025

Tiny dual rear cameras reportedly eliminate blind spots, which are a significant safety risk for motorcycle riders, enabling you to spot cars and obstructions without having to turn your head around. —New Atlas, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

blind spot

noun

1

a

: a point in the retina through which the optic nerve enters and which does not respond to light

b

: a part of an area that cannot be seen with available equipment

2

: an area of weakness (as in judgment)

Medical Definition

blind spot

noun

: the small circular area in the retina where the optic nerve enters the eye that is devoid of rods and cones and is insensitive to light

called also optic disc