onlooker

noun

on·​look·​er ˈȯn-ˌlu̇-kər How to pronounce onlooker (audio)
ˈän-
Synonyms of onlookernext
: one that looks on
especially : a passive spectator
onlooking
ˈȯn-ˌlu̇-kiŋ How to pronounce onlooker (audio)
ˈän-
adjective

Synonyms of onlooker

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Examples of onlooker in a Sentence

Curious onlookers watched the ceremony. An onlooker noticed the disturbance. A crowd of onlookers gathered at the fire.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Political onlookers say Nixon’s performance could mean that progressive nominees actually fare better against Republicans than more centrist Democrats. — Shauna Muckle, Miami Herald, 2 Aug. 2026 Both rallies only attracted about two dozen participants and a bevy of onlookers. — Anne M. Peterson, Los Angeles Times, 1 Aug. 2026 Though the news reporters, livestreamers and influencers have largely moved on from the scene of Guthrie’s kidnapping, the occasional onlooker still stops by. — Stephanie Murray, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2026 One onlooker in an unconfirmed report told The Star Preston had been pushed by a fan in the end zone by the KU bench. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for onlooker

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of onlooker was in 1606

Rhymes for onlooker

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Browse Nearby Words

on loan
onlooker
onlooking
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Cite this Entry

“Onlooker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/onlooker. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

onlooker

noun
on·​look·​er ˈȯn-ˌlu̇k-ər How to pronounce onlooker (audio)
ˈän-
: spectator

More from Merriam-Webster on onlooker

Nglish: Translation of onlooker for Spanish Speakers

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