blankly
UK: ˈblæŋkli | US: ˈblæŋkli
adv. in a blank or expressionless manner (showing no emotion, interest, or understanding)
The word "blankly" derives from "blank," which originally meant "white" or "shining" (from Old French blanc), later evolving to signify "void" or "expressionless." The suffix "-ly" converts the adjective "blank" into an adverb, describing how an action (e.g., staring, responding) is performed—without expression or thought. The progression reflects a shift from literal whiteness to metaphorical emptiness.
She stared blankly at the screen, unable to process the news.
He answered the question blankly, as if he hadn’t heard it.
The child blinked blankly, confused by the riddle.
The audience watched blankly, showing no reaction to the performance.
"I don’t know," he said blankly, shrugging his shoulders.