blunt
UK: blʌnt | US: blʌnt
adj. 1. (of an object) having a dull edge or point; not sharp.
adj. 2. (of speech or manner) straightforward and unsubtle; lacking tact.
vt. 1. to make less sharp or intense.
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The word "blunt" traces back to Middle English blont, likely derived from Old Norse blunda ("to shut one's eyes, doze"), suggesting a metaphorical shift from "unseeing" to "unsharpened" or "unrefined." By the 14th century, it evolved to describe physical dullness (e.g., blades) and later figurative directness (e.g., speech). The dual meanings reflect a logical progression: physical bluntness implies inefficiency, while verbal bluntness implies lack of subtlety.
The knife was too blunt to cut the tomato cleanly.
She appreciated his blunt honesty, even if it was harsh.
Repeated use had blunted the scissors' edges.
His blunt response left no room for negotiation.
The artist used a blunt pencil for rough sketches.