WordGarden.ioblank
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /blˈæŋk/
US
- /ˈblæŋk/
Meanings
Adjective
having no writing, print, or other visible content on it
expressionless or showing no understanding or response
Noun
an empty space on a form, test, or document meant to be filled in
Verb
to suddenly fail to remember or think of something
Beyond the definition
"Blank" is mostly about the absence of what is expected. A blank canvas invites color and form, a blank page waits for a story, and a blank stare can mean someone is stunned, uncertain, or still processing what was just said. You can show it as an expression—hard to read and emotionally distant—or in practical details, like a blank space on a form when a field is intentionally left empty. Sometimes it is used for things that look empty on purpose, such as a blank cartridge that makes a loud report but no live shot.
The word "blank" describes an empty space, void of content, information, or expression. It's more than just nothingness, though; it implies a lack where something is expected or possible. Think about a blank check—it isn't simply empty paper, but a promise of funds waiting to be defined by the bearer.
"Blank" often describes physical emptiness: "The room was completely blank except for a single chair." It can also refer to a sudden absence of information or memory: "My mind went blank during the exam." In social contexts, it describes a lack of emotion or reaction: "He gave me a blank look when I told him the news."
Figuratively, "blank" suggests a starting point or a lack of restriction. "Blank verse" is poetry with regular meter but no rhyme, offering a sense of structured freedom. A "blank slate" represents a fresh start, a mind or situation free from the weight of old decisions.
It can also mean completely lacking: "The proposal got a blank refusal," where the response is absolute and without nuance, or "a blank room," "a blank face," "a blank wall." It is a word that speaks to absence, potential, and the space between what is and what could be. Whether it's a physical void or an emotional distance, "blank" always suggests something missing—or something waiting to be created.
Examples
- 1
Form instructions
Please write your address here and leave the last line blank.
- 2
Paperwork
She handed me a blank form to fill out.
- 3
Facial expression
He gave me a blank look when I mentioned the joke.
- Phraseblank look
a face with no clear emotion or understanding
- 4
Writing
I stared at the blank screen, not knowing how to start the report.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Public speaking
My mind went blank during the presentation.
- Phrasego blank
suddenly stop being able to think of anything
- 6
Worksheet
Fill in the blanks before you hand in the worksheet.
- Phrasefill in the blanks
write the missing words or information
- 7
Memory failure
When they asked for his phone number, I drew a blank.
- Phrasedraw a blank
be unable to remember or think of an answer
- 8
Schedule planning
We still have a few blank spaces in the schedule for next week.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- blanknounverbadjective
Forms
- blankspluralnounverbadjective
- blankedpast tenseverbnounadjective
- blanking-ing formverbnounadjective