onlooker

noun

on·​look·​er ˈȯn-ˌlu̇-kər 

ˈän-

: one that looks on

especially : a passive spectator

onlooking

ˈȯn-ˌlu̇-kiŋ 

ˈän-

adjective

Synonyms of onlooker

• observer
• spectator
• viewer

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

The fact that Simmons and O’Hare frequently butt heads publicly makes the race even more compelling to onlookers, Rottinghaus said. — Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Oct. 2026

Many ticketholders and onlookers have been left wondering who, if anyone, will sign on to sing alongside Sheeran for the rest of his tour, concluding December 11 in Mexico City. — Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 5 Oct. 2026

Thomas, 25, was chased down by horrified onlookers and arrested about a block from the station. — Kerry Burke, New York Daily News, 1 Oct. 2026

The fact that Digger is such a big swing creatively and feels miles away from the star’s typically safer IP plays, including his forthcoming Days of Thunder 2, has garnered praise from onlookers. — Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for onlooker

• booker
• cooker
• looker
• rooker
• snooker

Kids Definition

onlooker

noun

on·​look·​er ˈȯn-ˌlu̇k-ər 

ˈän-

: spectator