Main Entry: ¹blank

Pronunciation: \ˈblaŋk\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French blanc colorless, white, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German blanch white; probably akin to Latin flagrare to burn — more at black

Date: 14th century

1 archaic : colorless
2 a : appearing or causing to appear dazed, confounded, or nonplussed <stared in blank dismay> b : expressionless <a blank stare>
3 a : devoid of covering or content; especially : free from writing or marks <blank paper> b : having spaces to be filled in c : lacking interest, variety, or change <blank hours>
4 : absolute, unqualified <a blank refusal>
5 : unfinished; especially : having a plain or unbroken surface where an opening is usual <a blank key> <a blank arch>

synonyms see empty

— blank·ly adverb

— blank·ness noun