sun blind: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, somewhat dated
Quick answer
What does “sun blind” mean?
A window covering, typically a roller blind, designed to block or filter strong sunlight.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A window covering, typically a roller blind, designed to block or filter strong sunlight.
Any device or material used to shield an interior space from direct sunlight, often to reduce glare and heat. Can also refer to a temporary condition of being dazzled by bright light.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'sun blind' is a recognized, though somewhat old-fashioned, term for a type of window blind. In American English, the term is very rare; 'window shade', 'blind', or 'sun shade' are vastly more common.
Connotations
In UK English, it may evoke a traditional or domestic setting. In US English, if used, it might be interpreted literally (a blind for the sun) or be misunderstood.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both dialects, but marginally more attested in historical and UK usage.
Grammar
How to Use “sun blind” in a Sentence
[Subject] + pulled down + the sun blindWe need + a sun blind + for + [window]The + [adjective] + sun blind + is + [state]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sun blind” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The sun-blind mechanism was stiff.
- We looked for a sun-blind specialist.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in contexts of office furnishing or building management.
Academic
Extremely rare.
Everyday
The most likely context, though still uncommon. Used in domestic conversations about home fixtures.
Technical
Rare. More specific terms like 'solar shading device' or 'external louvre' are used in architecture/engineering.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sun blind”
- Writing as one word 'sunblind' (though sometimes hyphenated).
- Confusing it with 'blinds' (general term) or 'sunblock' (skin cream).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I will sun blind the window').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a specific type of blind, designed primarily for solar protection. 'Blinds' is the general category.
No, it is not standard to use 'sun blind' as a verb. You would say 'pull down the sun blind' or 'close the blind'.
No, it is relatively uncommon and somewhat dated. Terms like 'roller blind', 'shade', or 'blackout blind' are more frequent.
A sun blind is typically a rigid or semi-rigid material (like fabric on a roller, slats, bamboo) designed specifically for light control. A curtain is usually a softer, hanging piece of fabric used for privacy and decoration as well as light blocking.
A window covering, typically a roller blind, designed to block or filter strong sunlight.
Sun blind is usually informal, somewhat dated in register.
Sun blind: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsʌn ˌblaɪnd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsʌn ˌblaɪnd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a BLIND that makes you 'blind' to the SUN -> SUN BLIND.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROTECTION IS A BARRIER (The blind acts as a barrier against the sun's 'attack' of light/heat).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'sun blind' MOST likely to be used?