Definition

Having a red and inflamed appearance, often due to irritation or congestion of blood vessels, especially in the eyes.

Example

After staring at the computer screen for too long, her eyes became bloodshot.

Conversation

You look a bit tired today, are your eyes bloodshot?

Yeah, I stayed up too late binge-watching that new series.

I can relate! My eyes get bloodshot when I don't sleep well.

Same here! I really need to start going to bed earlier.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bloodshot → It is formed from "blood" (from Old English "blōd", meaning the red fluid that circulates in the body) and "shot" (from Old English "sceotan", meaning to shoot or emit). The word describes eyes that appear red as if shot with blood, often due to irritation or fatigue.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'blood' which refers to the red fluid in our bodies, and 'shot' which suggests something that has been emitted or affected. This helps you remember that 'bloodshot' describes eyes that look red as if they have been affected by blood.

Visually Confused Words