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

Coleman found instructive a 1938 ruling in favor of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who challenged a radio station that placed observers on a rooftop next to Forbes Field and paid them to provide play-by-play for an unauthorized radio broadcast.

— Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Oct. 2026
While international observers initially blamed Moscow for the blasts, investigators later found suggestions that Ukrainian state security agencies may have been involved — even though Ukraine counts Germany as one of its closest allies.

— ABC News, ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of observer

Noun

Lutheran is required to complete a detailed Corrective Action Plan addressing game management, spectator conduct, staff training and school culture.

— Jennifer McRae, CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026
Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray described the shooting as a politically motivated act of violence carried out in front of children and hundreds of live spectators.

— Mackenzie Chase, The Washington Examiner, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of spectator

Noun

The outdoor temperature might have registered as freezing, but the crowd of onlookers sizzled with excitement.

— Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026
His lack of experience in the realms of ballet, classical music, opera, and jazz, formerly the center’s mainstays, have concerned some onlookers.

— News Desk, Artforum, 9 Oct. 2026

Definition of onlooker

Noun

With the help of bystanders, the deputies got Von Herbulis up the nearby stairs from the water to the dock.

— Natasha Holt, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2026
Video clips from bystanders shortly after the shooting Thursday show Belgal on the pavement with his hands cuffed and ICE officers nearby.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 10 Oct. 2026

Definition of bystander

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looker

looker-on

lookers

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Style

“Looker-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/looker-on. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of looker-on

noun

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