eye contact

noun

: visual contact with another person's eyes

Examples of eye contact in a Sentence

He maintained eye contact with me throughout the conversation. The speaker made eye contact with audience members. The jury avoided eye contact with the defendant as the verdict was read.
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.
Young and able-bodied riders avoiding eye contact with seniors or pregnant moms rather than give up their seats. Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026 This arrangement encourages eye contact for conversation without the need to float any furniture in the center. Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 8 June 2026 Also, remember that the avatar is reading your body language, eye contact, any kind of sighing or moaning. Phil Blair, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2026 Warm, attentive and personalized with plenty of eye contact. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for eye contact

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eye contact was in 1942

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eye contact.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eye%20contact. Accessed 10 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

eye contact

noun
: the act of looking another person straight in the eye

Medical Definition

eye contact

noun
: visual contact with another person's eyes
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