onlooker

noun

on·​look·​er ˈȯn-ˌlu̇-kər How to pronounce onlooker (audio)
ˈän-
Synonyms of onlookernext
: one that looks on
especially : a passive spectator
onlooking
ˈȯn-ˌlu̇-kiŋ How to pronounce onlooker (audio)
ˈän-
adjective

Synonyms of onlooker

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Examples of onlooker in a Sentence

Curious onlookers watched the ceremony. An onlooker noticed the disturbance. A crowd of onlookers gathered at the fire.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Under a state law passed in 2024 and amended this year, outdoor advertising companies can remove up to 500 feet of vegetation blocking drivers and onlookers from viewing their signs. — Charlotte Observer, 28 Oct. 2026 In Hopper’s Nighthawks, the viewer becomes this isolated onlooker, peering in at the fishbowl from the deserted street with no discernible doorway to access this haven of light. — Literary Hub, 26 Oct. 2026 Dozens of other workers on both banks pulled ropes to drag the structure forward, as hundreds of onlookers lined the canal to watch the highly unusual rescue effort. — ABC News, 21 Oct. 2026 Officers remained at the scene to de-escalate the situation and direct a crowd of onlookers away from the area, police said. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for onlooker

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of onlooker was in 1606

Rhymes for onlooker

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Browse Nearby Words

on loan
onlooker
onlooking
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Cite this Entry

“Onlooker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/onlooker. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

onlooker

noun
on·​look·​er ˈȯn-ˌlu̇k-ər How to pronounce onlooker (audio)
ˈän-
: spectator
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