Vague-eyed

Characterized by a lack of focus or clarity in the eyes, suggesting a state of abstraction, confusion, or detachment from immediate surroundings. This often manifests as a glazed or unfocused gaze, conveying a sense of being lost in thought, sleepy, or perhaps experiencing a mental disconnect. The term highlights an observed physical manifestation reflecting an internal state of uncertainty or dreaminess. It describes the visual impression more than the underlying cause, implying a visible quality rather than a definite diagnosis or assessment of intelligence. The gaze might appear unfixed, wandering, or lacking in intensity, differing from the sharp focus seen in alertness or intent observation.

Vague-eyed meaning with examples

• Lost in thought, the old woman sat by the window, her vague-eyed gaze fixed on the distant mountains. Sunlight refracted from her pupils, giving the look of wandering lost within. The stillness surrounding her evoked her apparent internal peace and tranquility, making her look both peaceful and somewhat unengaged with the world around her at that moment.
• The exhausted student stared blankly at the textbook, his vague-eyed expression betraying his inability to absorb the information. His sleep deprived state gave him a look of inattentiveness. Though his body remained seated, it was obvious that his mind had long since drifted. The teacher sighed, knowing another lesson was lost.
• After the traumatic incident, the young soldier's vague-eyed stare reflected a profound sense of shock and disconnection. He seemed to be present, but his eyes were glassy and vacant, unable to connect with the world. The nurse quietly noted the signs of shock, knowing this required urgent medical attention and therapeutic intervention.
• The child, awakened from a deep slumber, sat up in bed, his vague-eyed appearance indicating disorientation and sleepiness. He blinked slowly, trying to regain his bearings. It would take some moments before he could fully focus or process the world. The parents quickly tried to help him by speaking in soft, calming tones.
• As she listened to the complicated explanation, her vague-eyed expression told him he was losing her. Her eyes glossed over, and she looked far away and detached, betraying her confusion. He realized he needed to simplify his language, quickly shifting his approach and clarifying the critical points to maintain her interest.