tunnel vision

noun

1
: constriction of the visual field resulting in loss of peripheral vision
2
: extreme narrowness of viewpoint : narrow-mindedness
also : single-minded concentration on one objective
tunnel-visioned adjective

Examples of tunnel vision in a Sentence

His tunnel vision made sensible discussions on political issues nearly impossible.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Why Employee Burnout Creates Resistance To AI Burnout can create a tunnel vision where survival becomes the priority, leaving little room for exploring new tools. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024 During closing arguments, the defense accused investigators of having tunnel vision. Nikki Battiste, CBS News, 30 Nov. 2024 Make a point of looking beyond any tunnel vision to avoid preventing yourself from seeing other openings that would benefit you. Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 Oct. 2024 As the global economy enters this new era of multipolar growth, the United States would be wise not to succumb to tunnel vision in foreign policy. Ruchir Sharma, Foreign Affairs, 4 Apr. 2022 See all Example Sentences for tunnel vision 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tunnel vision was circa 1942

Dictionary Entries Near tunnel vision

Cite this Entry

“Tunnel vision.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tunnel%20vision. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

tunnel vision

noun
1
: narrowing of the field of vision resulting in loss of side vision
2
: a tendency to be extremely focused on something or on a part of something (as a problem or plan) while ignoring other factors

Medical Definition

tunnel vision

noun
: constriction of the visual field resulting in loss of peripheral vision

More from Merriam-Webster on tunnel vision

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!