Blanked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blanked

[blæŋkd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

emotional state

To be 'blanked' means to experience a state of mental or emotional emptiness where one feels unable to think or respond. This can happen due to stress, anxiety, or overwhelming feelings. It can also refer to the act of ignoring someone deliberately, leading them to feel neglected. The term is commonly used in social situations to describe moments when someone feels disregarded or left out.

Synonyms

ignored, neglected, overlooked, snubbed.

Examples of usage

  • He blanked during the exam and couldn't remember anything.
  • She felt blanked at the party when no one spoke to her.
  • I completely blanked on what I was supposed to say.
Context #2 | Verb

technical usage

In a technical sense, 'blanked' can refer to a state where an information display or a function on a device shows no data or activation. For example, a computer screen may go blank while processing information or due to a malfunction. This usage highlights the absence of expected output and typically indicates a need for troubleshooting.

Synonyms

cleared, erased, reset, wiped.

Examples of usage

  • The screen went blanked after the system crashed.
  • He blanked out the display temporarily for privacy.
  • After the update, my device blanked unexpectedly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Blanking can be a common reaction to stress or anxiety, where the brain temporarily 'shuts down' to cope with overwhelming situations.
  • Research suggests that significant emotional moments often lead to blanking, as the most intense feelings can overwhelm memory processing.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often 'blank out' during crucial moments, leading to comedic or dramatic situations.
  • The concept of 'blanking' has also been used in songs and literature to illustrate the feelings of confusion or loss.

Education

  • Students sometimes experience blanking during tests, which is when they forget what they studied despite knowing the material.
  • Techniques like mindfulness and stress management can help reduce instances of blanking, creating a more conducive learning environment.

Science

  • Blanking is associated with cognitive overload when the brain receives too much information too quickly, leading to temporary forgetfulness.
  • Studies in neuroscience indicate that memory formation can be disrupted by stress hormones released during intense emotional experiences.

Origin of 'blanked'

Main points about word origin

  • Originally from the Old English word 'blanc', meaning white or empty, which evolved into the sense of being devoid of memory.
  • The phrase 'blanked out' gained popularity in the 20th century as a colloquial way to describe sudden memory loss.

The word 'blank' originated from the Old French term 'blanc', which translates to 'white' and signifies something that is empty or void. It has evolved across different languages and contexts, where 'blank' denotes an absence or lack of something. In the 20th century, the verb form 'blanked' emerged, primarily in informal settings, to encapsulate the idea of mental forgetfulness or intentional disregard. The term has gained traction in modern slang, particularly among younger generations, describing feelings of isolation or neglect in social contexts. The adaptability of 'blanked' allows for its use in both emotional and technical discussions, emphasizing the versatility of the word.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,528 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.