Deer-in-the-headlights Definition

noun

(idiomatic) A mental state of high arousal caused by anxiety fear, panic, surprise and/or confusion, or substance abuse.

Wiktionary

(idiomatic) A stunned or glazed expression.

Wiktionary

Origin of Deer-in-the-headlights

  • From the image of a deer caught in a car’s headlights – widely opened eyes, lack of motor reactions, etc.

    From Wiktionary

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