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

The games have been exciting and competitive, creating an enjoyable experience for both the athletes and the spectators. — CBS News, 9 Nov. 2026

The judgment protects the four plaintiffs’ right to silently wear the wristbands along the sidelines, in spectator areas and in parking lots at any Bow School District sporting event. — Jackson Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2026

Hardaway for the second night was limited to one first-half stint and then a spectator in the second half. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2026

Opponents questioned why the park was considered safe enough to accommodate thousands of runners and spectators but now needed to be closed entirely. — Chris Matthews, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 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