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.
Bickelhaupt was taken to the hospital in June 2025 with two black eyes and purple and bluish bruises. — Zoey Thomas, Sun Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2026 Madore is standing on her hind legs, her beady black eyes peeking out from underneath her woolly fur, looking at the viewer expectantly. — Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2026 So here is a common sense approach the NFL should adapt to avoid these public relations black eyes – because the league gets a lot of coverage over national anthem performances that go awry. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026 The teenager, who was driving with two relatives to work, sustained a black eye and cuts to his forehead, according to pictures attached to prior legal filings. — Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 28 Sep. 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 1 Nov. 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

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