stargazing

noun

star·​gaz·​ing ˈstär-ˌgā-ziŋ How to pronounce stargazing (audio)
Synonyms of stargazingnext
1
: the act or practice of a stargazer
2
a
: absorption in chimerical or impractical ideas : woolgathering
b
: the quality or state of being absent-minded

Examples of stargazing in a Sentence

We left the city after dark to do some stargazing.
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.
Linger there for some stargazing beneath a sky totally untainted by light. — Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 19 June 2026 Camping in this desert oasis means sleeping among the rocks and iconic Joshua trees under a dark sky that's prime for stargazing. — Andrea Romano, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026 The Smithsonian marks the high point of summer by keeping its museums open late for two nights of concerts, stargazing and dancing. — Fritz Hahn, Washington Post, 18 June 2026 Then be sure to check out our roundups of the best telescopes and binoculars for stargazing, along with our expert tips for beginning your amateur astronomy journey. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for stargazing

Word History

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stargazing was in 1576

Rhymes for stargazing

See All Rhymes for stargazing

Browse Nearby Words

stargazer
stargazing
star gear
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stargazing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stargazing. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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