Phrase guide

blank slate

noun · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

Something that is clear and empty, or free from preconceptions and biases.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: also, figuratively

Topics: human-sciences, philosophy, sciences

Examples

  • Near-synonyms: tabula rasa, clean slate

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: tabula rasa, clean slate

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

Synonym of blank canvas.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: blank canvas

Antonyms: none provided

3

noun

Meaning 3

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see blank, slate.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

3 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • German: unbeschriebenes Blatt — Translations
  • Polish: tabula rasa — Translations
  • Spanish: foja cero — Translations