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

This disturbing contradiction suggests that different physical laws apply to the observer and the observed.

— Philipp Strasberg, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026
In a video of the incident posted to social media, a black SUV was seen driving down the residential street before appearing to strike an observer as other observers blew whistles in warning of approaching agents.

— Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of observer

Noun

The race would bring teams, corporate partners, international media and spectators to Rwanda, creating opportunities to promote tourism and attract business.

— Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 22 Oct. 2026
In the Stands Jaden quickly became a tennis spectator, as he and Steffi were spotted in the stands during one of Andre’s matches during the 2002 US Open.

— Kelly Allen, PEOPLE, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of spectator

Noun

In Hopper’s Nighthawks, the viewer becomes this isolated onlooker, peering in at the fishbowl from the deserted street with no discernible doorway to access this haven of light.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 26 Oct. 2026
Dozens of other workers on both banks pulled ropes to drag the structure forward, as hundreds of onlookers lined the canal to watch the highly unusual rescue effort.

— ABC News, ABC News, 21 Oct. 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 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of looker-on

noun

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