Dictionary entry

Blur

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Blur (blûr), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Blurred (blûrd); p. pr. & vb. n.Blurring.] [Prob. of same origin as blear. See Blear.] 1. To render obscure by making the form or outline of confused and uncertain, as by soiling; to smear; to make indistinct and confused; as, to blur manuscript by handling it while damp; to blur the impression of a woodcut by an excess of ink.

But time hath nothing blurred those lines of favor

Which then he wore.

Shak.

2. To cause imperfection of vision in; to dim; to darken.

Her eyes are blurred with the lightning's glare.

J. R. Drake.

3. To sully; to stain; to blemish, as reputation.

Sarcasms may eclipse thine own,

But can not blur my lost renown.

Hudibras.

Syn. — To spot; blot; disfigure; stain; sully.