blinker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal (predominantly), Technical (equestrian/automotive)
Quick answer
What does “blinker” mean?
A device that flashes a light as a signal or warning.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device that flashes a light as a signal or warning.
Primarily a flashing light on a vehicle (indicator/turn signal); also refers to a type of eye covering for horses.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
UK: 'Indicator' is the dominant, formal term. 'Blinker' is informal but common. US: 'Turn signal' or 'blinker' are both common. For the horse equipment, 'blinders' (US) vs. 'blinkers' (UK).
Connotations
UK 'blinker' is slightly informal/colloquial. US 'blinker' is standard for the light.
Frequency
More frequent in US everyday speech for the car part. In UK, 'indicator' is more frequent in formal contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “blinker” in a Sentence
put on + POSSESSIVE + blinker (before turning)the blinker + is flashingthe blinker + stopped workingVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “blinker” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He didn't blinker before changing lanes.
- The driver is blinking right.
American English
- She blinked left at the intersection.
- Make sure to blinker before merging.
adverb
British English
- Not typically used as an adverb.
American English
- Not typically used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- A blinker bulb needs replacing.
- The blinker relay clicked.
American English
- The blinker fluid is a joke, don't buy it.
- I need a new blinker switch.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, unless in automotive industry sales.
Academic
Rare, except in technical descriptions of vehicle systems.
Everyday
Very common in the context of driving and car maintenance.
Technical
Used in automotive engineering and equestrian equipment.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “blinker”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “blinker”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “blinker”
- Using 'blinker' in formal UK writing (use 'indicator'). Confusing with hazard lights ('blinkers' vs. 'hazard lights').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It's common in American English, but also used informally in British English. The formal British term is 'indicator'.
They are pieces of leather attached to a horse's bridle to prevent it from seeing sideways, keeping it focused forward.
Yes, informally, especially in US English. E.g., 'Blinker before you turn.'
'Blinkers' (or indicators/turn signals) are for signalling a turn or lane change. 'Hazard lights' make all four corner lights flash simultaneously to warn other drivers of a stationary vehicle or a hazard.
A device that flashes a light as a signal or warning.
Blinker is usually informal (predominantly), technical (equestrian/automotive) in register.
Blinker: in British English it is pronounced /ˈblɪŋkə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈblɪŋkər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “put the blinkers on (someone)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'BLINK' + 'ER' = something that makes a blinking action.
Conceptual Metaphor
A signalling eye (the car 'winks' to show intention).
Practice
Quiz
In a formal British driving manual, which term is most likely used?