blendung

Blendung, from the verb blenden "to dazzle or blind," is a German noun meaning the act or effect of dazzling or blinding light. It is used for both literal glare and, metaphorically, for cognitive or moral blindness. The noun is common in everyday language and in technical discourse.

In optics and vision science, blendung refers to glare that impairs vision, whether direct from a bright source such as the sun or headlights, or indirect from reflected light. It can reduce contrast sensitivity and temporarily degrade acuity, leading to discomfort or safety hazards in activities like driving. In German, compounds such as Sonnenblendung (sun glare) or Straßenblendung (glare on the road) are used.

In literature and criticism, blendung denotes a blinding effect that prevents discernment. The most widely known cultural use is Elias Canetti's Die Blendung (1935), translated into English as Auto-da-Fé; the novel's title underscores themes of intellectual vanity and social blindness, using blendung both literally and metaphorically.

Other uses include journalism and film criticism to describe dazzling lighting or image highlights that overwhelm perception. The term remains common in German-language discussions of optics and visual experience.