LOOKER-ON Synonyms: 21 Similar and Opposite Words

looker-on

noun

Definition of looker-on

as in observer

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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 looker-on Shortly after the Paris Couture Week show, beauty fanatics and experts quickly began to dissect McGrath’s brilliant makeup artistry, earning high praise from notable lookers-on. — Claire Sullivan, WWD, 23 Jan. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for looker-on

Noun

Aviation observers studying pictures of the aircraft said the new plane appears to lack external modifications to the tail cone associated with a type of directional infrared missile defense system.

— Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 10 July 2026
Some market observers contend that concerns about future inflation contribute to higher long-term borrowing costs.

— Jason Phillips, USA Today, 10 July 2026

Definition of observer

Noun

The decision drew widespread public anger, both toward the Norwegian government, and toward spectators who sought out Freya and disregarded official warnings.

— Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
The weeklong preliminary hearing attracted intense media coverage and spectators who lined up — sometimes overnight — for one of 14 seats in the courtroom reserved for the public.

— Hannah Schoenbaum, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2026

Definition of spectator

Noun

To many onlookers, Neil’s shenanigans appear adorably quirky.

— Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 8 July 2026
Minnesota law enforcement is currently in the process of examining publicly available evidence in both the Good and Pretti cases, including the many videos of both shootings taken by onlookers.

— Quinta Jurecic, The Atlantic, 6 July 2026

Definition of onlooker

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looker

looker-on

lookers

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“Looker-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/looker-on. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of looker-on

noun

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