Colorblind

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈkʌləblaɪnd/

Definitions

1. A physical condition where one cannot differentiate certain colors is coupled with a lack of sensitivity towards racial issues and other forms of discrimination
2. A condition where an individual cannot perceive specific colors distinctly while also displaying a lack of consciousness about racial intolerance and its implications
3. Having a visual impairment that prevents clear differentiation of some colors ; lacking awareness or sensitivity to matters involving race and discrimination

Etymology: In its literal sense, the word is a plain compound: "color" plus "blind," meaning unable to see. "Blind" comes from Old English "blind," which meant unable to see and later extended to lacking understanding or awareness. "Color" came into English through Old French from the Latin "color," meaning hue or surface appearance. The figurative sense took a different route. Once "color-blind" described a visual deficiency, speakers began using it as a metaphor for failing to notice something obvious, and later for refusing to see differences of race. In that second sense the word is often used in debate, sometimes approvingly as a call to treat people equally, and sometimes critically, to argue that ignoring race overlooks real inequality.

Synonyms: color vision deficiency, achromatopsia

Antonyms: color-sighted