Wide-eyed

Describing a state of having eyes open wide, often indicating surprise, innocence, naiveté, curiosity, or fear. It suggests a state of being unaware or inexperienced, open to new experiences, and often marked by a sense of wonder or fascination. The expression can also portray a sense of vulnerability or a feeling of being overwhelmed. It may signal someone's first time experiencing something new, and they're often receptive, and may be described as 'starry-eyed' or 'gawking' and often linked to excitement or shock. The degree of the wide-eyed look also dictates the level of experience, so a small glance could mean curiosity, while a full wide stare is more fear or awe-inspired.

Wide-eyed meaning with examples

• The children were wide-eyed with excitement as the magician pulled a rabbit from his hat. Their faces reflected pure wonder, their eyes fixed on every move. They had never seen magic before.
• Stepping off the plane in Tokyo for the first time, I was completely wide-eyed by the neon lights, bustling crowds, and unfamiliar language. It was a sensory overload, a complete culture shock.
• After hearing the shocking news, she looked wide-eyed, unable to comprehend what had just been said. The realization of the situation quickly hit her.
• The wide-eyed puppy explored the new house, sniffing every corner with curiosity and excitement. He padded through the unfamiliar rooms of his new home.
• Lost in the thrilling sci-fi movie, the audience watched wide-eyed as the spaceship launched into the unknown reaches of space, gasping at the sheer magnitude of what was presented.