Gimlet-Eyed
/ˈɡɪm.lət aɪd/noun
Having sharply penetrating, observant, or scrutinizing eyes.
Did you know?The expression compares a person’s gaze to a gimlet’s rotating point, suggesting not merely sharp vision but an almost invasive ability to penetrate appearances.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*wimila-
“A boring or drilling tool; the exact reconstructed form and pathway are uncertain.”
Middle Dutch
Middle Dutch
wimmel
“A gimlet or auger used for boring holes.”
Middle English
English
wimble
“A hand tool for boring holes; an early English relative of gimlet.”
16th–17th Century
French
guimbelet / gibelet
“A small boring tool, from which English gimlet developed through French influence.”
17th Century
English
gimlet
“A small tool with a spiral point for boring holes.”
19th Century
English
gimlet-eyed
“Describing eyes or a gaze as sharply penetrating and intensely observant.”