blind spots

Noun

blind spot (plural blind spots)

1. The place where the optic nerve attaches to the retina, and so where the retina cannot detect light; the portion of the visual field that corresponds to this site.
   • We all have a blind spot in our vision, but our brains usually compensate for it, such that we usually don't consciously notice it.

   Synonyms:

   optic disc, optic disk, scotoma

2. Any portion of the visual field in which the vision is impaired (by ocular disease).
   • He has a few blind spots in his eyesight because of his diabetic retinopathy.

   Synonyms:

   scotoma

3. In driving, the part of the road that cannot be seen in the rear-view mirror or side-view mirror.
   • When he changed lanes, he sideswiped a car that was in his blind spot.

   Synonyms:

   blindside

4. The part of the railway/tramway track that cannot be seen in the side mirror or the side window.
   • When he changed tracks, he sideswiped a railway worker that was in his blind spot.

   Synonyms:

   blindside

5. In a stadium or auditorium, any location affording those seated or standing there only an obstructed visual or auditory experience.
   • Our seats turned out to be in a blind spot behind a pillar blocking our view on the stage.
6. (figuratively) An inability to recognize a fact or think clearly about a certain topic, especially because of a prejudice.
   • He loves her so much that he has a blind spot when it comes to her faults.

   Synonyms:

   scotoma

See all 10 meanings of blind spot