black eye

noun

Synonyms of black eyenext
1
: a discoloration of the skin around the eye from bruising
2
a
: defeat, setback
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.
Both are black eyes for the two mega-companies and their partnership. — John Werner, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 An elderly man with a black eye was greeted with applause after his rescue. — ABC News, 27 June 2026 But unlike fruit flies, these pests have black eyes (not red), distinctive humped backs, and heavier, thicker-veined wings. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 28 June 2026 Moore said his daughter has a broken nose, black eyes, and a cut lip and needs to be tested for a possible concussion. — Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 31 May 2026 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

Rhymes for black eye

See All Rhymes for black eye

Browse Nearby Words

blackey
black eye
black-eyed bean
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Black eye.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black%20eye. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for black eye

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