as in observer
someone who sees or watches something several onlookers gave chase after the thief grabbed the woman's purse

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of onlooker One of the attackers then proceeded to slit Forde’s throat using a 12-inch dagger as two other assailants stabbed him in the stomach in front of onlookers. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 6 June 2025 While some onlookers have soured on Legette following his poor second half of last year, the South Carolina alum will be given every opportunity to make the most of his draft pedigree in training camp and the preseason heading into Year 2. Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 4 June 2025 Smoke rose as demonstrators and onlookers rushed to find anything that could hold water to pour onto the more than a half dozen people set ablaze. Danya Gainor, CNN Money, 3 June 2025 Kraft’s remarks drew such a harsh reaction from part of the crowd, with onlookers standing up, jeering and shouting in his direction, that an event organizer had to go on to the stage to settle things down and warn against future interruptions. Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for onlooker
Recent Examples of Synonyms for onlooker
Noun
  • The Role of the United States To claim that the U.S. is merely a passive observer is both inaccurate and misleading.
    Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
  • But given that both the lander and tanker Starships will use up most of their propellant just getting into orbit, some independent observers estimate as many as 10 to 20 launches will be needed to gas up the lander for the flight to the moon.
    William Harwood, CBS News, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • When spectators applauded, Reed seemed stunned at first.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 13 June 2025
  • With these spectators skewing younger and more diverse than traditional luxury consumers, Arnault clearly has his eyes set on future customer cultivation, something many luxury brands often eschew in favor of those who can afford their products today.
    Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025
Noun
  • As viewers head into S4’s final episode next week, Bumpy is left with few allies and even fewer resources.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 18 June 2025
  • The viewer gets to tag along through training camp and the ongoing NFL season.
    Dana Feldman, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Onlooker.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/onlooker. Accessed 27 Jun. 2025.

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