# draw a blank

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/draw-a-blank
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be unable to recall a required piece of information.

## Examples

- I drew a blank when she asked for his name.
- You often draw a blank when you are under a lot of stress.
- During the exam, I completely drew a blank and couldn't remember the formula.
- I tried to log into my bank account this morning, but I drew a blank when the screen asked for my new password.
- The detective asked the witness for a description of the car, but the man drew a blank because the street was so dark.
- Despite having rehearsed his speech for hours, the nervous speaker drew a blank the moment he stepped onto the stage.

## Origin

Probably derived from the mechanics of an old-fashioned lottery, wherein a participant would draw a ticket from a drum only to find no prize recorded upon it. The drawing of a blank ticket signified a loss, the ticket itself being void of value or information. The phrase likely migrated from the disappointment of the lottery hall to the general failure of memory or effort, though the specific transition remains unproven. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.