lookout

1 of 2

noun

look·​out ˈlu̇k-ˌau̇t 

1

: one engaged in keeping watch : watchman

2

: an elevated place or structure affording a wide view for observation

3

: a careful looking or watching

on the lookout

4

: view, outlook

5

: a matter of care or concern

look out

2 of 2

verb

looked out; looking out; looks out

intransitive verb

: to take care or concern oneself

—used with for

looking out for number one

Synonyms of lookout

Noun

• overlook
• observatory
• tower

Verb

• watch out (for)
• guard (against)
• notice
• beware (of)

Examples of lookout in a Sentence

Noun

The troops posted a lookout for the night.

The mountain road had several lookouts where you could enjoy the view.

Verb

if you go in those woods, look out for snakes!

as a fiduciary, she has an obligation to look out for our interests

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This New Jersey home, atop a lookout spot Washington used to spy on British troops during the American Revolution, was recently listed for the fitting price. — Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 17 July 2026

For now, the lookout volunteers use a map, compass and familiarity with landmarks to pinpoint the location for initial attack crews. — Susan Montoya Bryan, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026

Verb

But Atkins is shooting 26 percent on 3s and often looks out of sorts in coach Lynne Roberts’ offense. — Sabreena Merchant, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Tigers — Another team that was injury-riddled and looked out of it, 44-52 as late as June 28, and almost certain to trade Tarik Skubal. — Bill Madden, New York Daily News, 18 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1752, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lookout

• be on the lookout for
• keep a lookout for
• on the lookout for
• someone's lookout

Rhymes for lookout

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

lookout

noun

look·​out ˈlu̇k-ˌau̇t 

1

: a person who keeps watch

2

: a high place or structure from which a wide view is possible

3

: a careful looking or watching

4

: outlook sense 1b

5

: a matter of care or concern

the plants are wilting, but that's not my lookout