bloodshot

views updated Jun 11 2018

bloodshot Applied to eyes, this refers to visible blood in or behind the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is supplied by minute blood vessels. Redness is apparent if these are dilated by irritation or infection; actual sub-conjunctival bleeding — a bloodshot eye — may accompany this or more often occurs without infection, from external damage or a surge of blood pressure.

Stuart Judge

bloodshot

views updated May 21 2018

blood·shot / ˈblədˌshät/ • adj. (of the eyes) inflamed or tinged with blood, typically as a result of tiredness.