spectator

noun

spec·​ta·​tor ˈspek-ˌtā-tər 

spek-ˈtā-

1

: one who looks on or watches

2

: a shoe having contrasting colors with a perforated design at the toe and sometimes heel

spectator adjective

spectatorial

ˌspek-tə-ˈtȯr-ē-əl 

adjective

spectatorship

ˈspek-ˌtā-tər-ˌship 

spek-ˈtā-

noun

Synonyms of spectator

• observer
• viewer

Examples of spectator in a Sentence

The spectators lining the road cheered the racers on.

The accident attracted a large crowd of spectators.

I wasn't a participant in the preparations, merely a spectator.

Recent Examples on the Web

Reformation joined forces with Umbro for a capsule of chic spectator separates. — Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 16 July 2026

The rocky beaches around the amphitheater offer a clear line of sight of the Starship launch pad, and there are often spectators on boats out of nearby Port Isabel offering a picturesque view. — Tariq Malik, Space.com, 15 July 2026

Volunteer assignments will range from welcoming and assisting spectators and athletes to specialized positions involving medical support, communications, technology, transportation and language translation assistance, officials said. — City News Service, Daily News, 14 July 2026

As Macron greeted crowds on the Champs-Elysees, spectators chatted with him about France’s chances of victory. — Eva Van Dam, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from spectare to watch

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spectator

• spectator sport

Kids Definition

spectator

noun

spec·​ta·​tor ˈspek-ˌtāt-ər 

spek-ˈtāt-

: a person who looks on (as at a sports event)

spectator adjective