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 adjective

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.
If all goes according to plan Thursday, the worst mishaps will just be Charmin caroming off onlookers. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 18 June 2026 The siblings put on a united front—and gave onlookers a glimpse at the royal family's bright future—amid anti-monarchy protests. Lara Walsh, InStyle, 17 June 2026 So, Nitzany wrangled and grabbed the python while onlookers stood back and watched. Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 17 June 2026 The Bobbing Barrels water ride will let riders spin their barrels using water cannon blasts while onlookers also fire away from the sidelines with their own water cannons. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 June 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Onlooker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/onlooker. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

onlooker

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

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