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
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.
But how to rationalize the black eye to CBS News and its signature news show 60 Minutes? Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 14 July 2025 One of them, huge and hulking, had scrapes all across his chest, a gash on his leg, and an impressive black eye. Literary Hub, 24 June 2025 O'Keefe was found at about 6 a.m. local time in Albert's front yard with two black eyes and deep cuts on the back of his head and right arm. Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 21 June 2025 The weekend's upsets serve as a black eye for the SEC. Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 4 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for black eye

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

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Cite this Entry

“Black eye.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black%20eye. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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

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