noun / verb
stare
STAIR/ster/
A steady, intent look at someone or something.
The man stares steadily at the sculpture as time passes.
Etymology
Old English starian described a fixed, wide-eyed gaze, often associated with awe or madness. That emphasis on an unwavering gaze connects directly to looking at something for a long time.
In context
If you stare long enough at a brightly colored image, your cones will receive the same stimulus for too long, and basically stop responding.
More examples
- She stares at the screen, waiting for the results.
- His unusual hat draws curious stares on the subway.
- We stared in disbelief at the enormous bill.
Forms
stare · stares · stared · staring