black eye

noun

1
: a discoloration of the skin around the eye from bruising
2
b
: a bad reputation

Examples of black eye in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Collegeville outfit came with the mask of a scowling pirate with an open eye-patch that looked more like a black eye and a sickly green pallor that would shiver the timbers of the saltiest sea dog. René Guzman, San Antonio Express-News, 2 Oct. 2024 For research, Mellors also interviewed models whose lives were shaped by the fashion industry, to better understand Lucky’s character, and even trained with a boxing coach for a year to write Bonnie's — during which the author ended up with a black eye. Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 27 Sep. 2024 The child was described as being about 5 feet 3 inches tall, having black hair with a brown patch, of caramel complexion and with black eyes. David Clarey, Journal Sentinel, 1 Oct. 2024 Oy vey, Lily is having trouble hiding her black eye :( Eek, Atlas/Ryle fight. Emma Specter, Vogue, 27 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for black eye 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'black eye.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of black eye was in 1604

Dictionary Entries Near black eye

Cite this Entry

“Black eye.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black%20eye. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

black eye

noun
: a dark discoloration of the skin around the eye as the result of a bruise

Medical Definition

black eye

noun
: a discoloration of the skin around the eye from bruising

More from Merriam-Webster on black eye

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