English Reference
Idiom idiom

see stars


To experience apparent flashing lights in one's field of vision, especially after receiving a blow to the head.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

He hit his head and started to see stars.

CONTEXTUAL

After the boxer took a heavy punch to the jaw, he stumbled back and began to see stars.

COMPLEX

The sudden impact against the wall left him momentarily disoriented, his vision blurred as he began to see stars.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bar star

    A woman who frequents bars or lounges, usually late at night.

  2. 02

    for all the world to see

    in plain view; clearly visible

  3. 03

    have seen one's day

    Of a person, thing, idea, etc., to be at the point in a life cycle or career of no longer being useful or effective; to be worn-out.

  4. 04

    have seen one's last gum tree

    Of a person, on the edge of death.

  5. 05

    have seen this movie

    To have experienced a situation which is the same as or similar to the current situation, especially with a sense of the unpleasantness or tiresomeness of the recurring situation.

  6. 06

    hitch one's wagon to a star

    To commit to an aspirational goal or course of action that will lead to fulfillment.

  7. 07

    I see, said the blind man

    Expressing confusion.

  8. 08

    I'd like to see someone try

    Expressing a threat or challenge to someone.

Last updated August 10, 2026