looker-on

noun

Definition of looker-onnext
as in observer

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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 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
  1. observer
  2. spectator
  3. onlooker
  4. bystander
Noun
  • His game-calling drew consistent criticism from fans and media observers.
    — Bobby Burack OutKick, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
  • This development is often overlooked because many Western observers continue to see China’s space program as a purely state-run enterprise.
    — Rainer Zitelmann, Fortune, 2 July 2026
Definition of observer
Noun
  • Stunned spectators are heard gasping and screaming before people start to run away.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 5 July 2026
  • Both players and celebrity spectators show off ace timepieces at the prestigious, centuries-old tennis tournament every year.
    — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 4 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
Noun
  • Some riders gallivant and whoosh past bystanders, weaving in and out and putting surrounding passersby on edge.
    — Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
  • When first responders arrived, bystanders were already performing CPR.
    — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 4 July 2026
Definition of bystander

Browse Nearby Words

looker
looker-on
lookers
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Cite this Entry

“Looker-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/looker-on. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

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