Part of Speech

Verb, Adjective

Pronunciation

/blɪər/

Definitions

• Verb: To make or become blurry, dim, or unclear, especially in terms of vision.
• Adjective: Describing something that is dim, blurred, or unclear, often referring to vision or the effect of something unclear.

Usage Examples

• Her vision became blear after she stared at the screen for hours.
• The morning fog left the city looking blear and distant.
• He had a blear look in his eyes, as if he hadn't slept in days.

Etymology

First recorded in the 14th century, "blear" comes from Middle English "blere," meaning "to make dim" or "to make unclear." It is related to the Old English word "blæran," which means "to become dim" or "to make dim." The word evolved to describe the effect on vision, leading to its current use in both verb and adjective forms.

Synonyms

• Blurred
• Dim
• Fuzzy
• Unclear
• Hazy
• Cloudy

Antonyms

• Clear
• Sharp
• Vivid
• Focused
• Distinct

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /blɪər/
• British English: /blɪə/
• Indian English: /blɪər/ (typically used to describe eyes or vision affected by tiredness or illness)

Historical Usage

The word "blear" has been in use since the 14th century and was first used to describe blurred or dim vision caused by illness or exhaustion. It is often found in older literary works to describe a sense of unclear perception or physical discomfort, especially in regard to vision. Over time, the word broadened to describe any dim or unclear quality, including the haze created by weather or atmosphere.

Cultural Nuances

"Blear" has a significant cultural connection with states of poor health, fatigue, or emotional distress. It often evokes a sense of weariness, as in the expression "bleary-eyed," which is used to describe someone who looks tired or exhausted. In literature and poetry, it has been used to convey a sense of hopelessness or despair, reflecting both physical and emotional blurriness.

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