bloodshot

adjective

blood·​shot ˈbləd-ˌshät How to pronounce bloodshot (audio)
of an eye
: inflamed to redness

Examples of bloodshot 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.
Troopers alleged that his eyes were bloodshot and glossy and that the smell of alcohol emanated from the vehicle, state police said. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 31 Jan. 2025 While speaking with Mondragon, troopers allegedly observed signs of impairment, including the odor of alcohol, slurred speech and bloodshot eyes, state police said. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 28 Jan. 2025 Williams smelled strongly of alcohol and had slurred speech, was unsteady on his feet and had bloodshot eyes, police said. Kirsten Fiscus, The Tennessean, 18 Oct. 2024 In a police report, an officer noted Ariel’s glassy, bloodshot eyes and the smell of beer. Melissa Sanchez, ProPublica, 24 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for bloodshot

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bloodshot was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bloodshot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bloodshot. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

bloodshot

adjective
blood·​shot -ˌshät How to pronounce bloodshot (audio)
: red and inflamed
bloodshot eyes

Medical Definition

bloodshot

adjective
blood·​shot ˈbləd-ˌshät How to pronounce bloodshot (audio)
of an eye
: inflamed to redness

More from Merriam-Webster on bloodshot

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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