1580s, agent noun from blind (v.). In 19c. use, especially of blinkers for horses (1809); often figurative. They were said to prevent the horse looking around and being startled by peripheral movements and to keep it steady at its work, but many equestrian authorities railed against them as cruel and unnecessary. Related: Blinders.
blind
blind date
blind side
blind spot
blinded
blinder
blindfold
blinding
blindly
blindman
blindness