Blinder

Blinder is a term with multiple meanings, including equipment used in horse racing. In this context, a blinder refers to a device fitted to a horse's bridle to limit the animal's field of vision. The device typically consists of leather or plastic cups or visors mounted near the eyes, sometimes connected to cheekpieces and occasionally paired with ear coverings. By narrowing peripheral vision, blinkers help a horse focus on the track ahead and reduce distraction from crowd movement, shadows, or other horses. Designs range from full blinkers that cover a larger portion of the eye area to milder side-blinders used in training or breaking. They are regulated by racing authorities and can be removed for certain races or horses.

Second, blinder can also have a colloquial meaning in British English: a standout or spectacular performance by a player or team, often described as “a blinder” in sports journalism and casual conversation.

Etymology and usage: the word blinder is formed from the noun blind with the agent suffix -er. It is most commonly used in the United Kingdom, with the related equipment typically referred to as blinkers or blinders in racing contexts.

Other uses: in some contexts, a blinder can refer to a blindfold or masking device used to obscure sight, though modern usage for that purpose typically uses the term blindfold rather than blinder.