spectator

noun

ˈspek-ˌtā-tər How to pronounce spectator (audio)
Definition of spectatornext
as in observer
someone who sees or watches something a building demolition that drew a crowd of spectators even at 3:00 a.m.

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 spectator Hardaway for the second night was limited to one first-half stint and then a spectator in the second half. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2026 Opponents questioned why the park was considered safe enough to accommodate thousands of runners and spectators but now needed to be closed entirely. — Chris Matthews, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2026 What was once a relatively straightforward athletic competition has become a large-scale production, with elaborate start areas, entertainment, spectator experiences and increasingly demanding safety requirements. — Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 5 Nov. 2026 Doncic also was involved in a situation that led to a spectator being removed from his seat near the baseline. — ABC News, 5 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spectator
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spectator
  1. observer
  2. viewer
Noun
  • These could include military-to-military engagement and security reassurances among the United States, South Korea, and North Korea, or greater transparency around military exercises—allowing observers on a reciprocal basis, for example.
    — Stephen E. Biegun, Foreign Affairs, 11 Nov. 2026
  • In a nearby room, observers from both campaigns watched through plexiglass every movement of election staff, how each machine was counting and which ballots required additional attention.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 10 Nov. 2026
Definition of observer
Noun
  • Let the Christmas movie bonanza begin, with Prime Video’s Clashing Through the Snow trailer now added to the pile of presents awaiting viewers in later November and the full month of December.
    — Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 10 Nov. 2026
  • In addition, famed baker and author Amirah Kassem has come on board as a roaming sideline reporter, bringing viewers real-time reactions from the bakers, their families and the audience.
    — Kimberly Nordyke, HollywoodReporter, 10 Nov. 2026
Definition of viewer

Browse Nearby Words

spectaculars
spectator
spectators
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spectator.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spectator. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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