lookout

1 of 2

noun

look·​out ˈlu̇k-ˌau̇t 

1

: one engaged in keeping watch : watchman

2

: an elevated place or structure affording a wide view for observation

3

: a careful looking or watching

on the lookout

4

: view, outlook

5

: a matter of care or concern

look out

2 of 2

verb

looked out; looking out; looks out

intransitive verb

: to take care or concern oneself

—used with for

looking out for number one

Synonyms

Noun

• observatory
• outlook
• overlook

Verb

• beware (of)
• guard (against)
• mind
• ware
• watch out (for)

Examples of lookout in a Sentence

Noun

The troops posted a lookout for the night.

The mountain road had several lookouts where you could enjoy the view.

Verb

if you go in those woods, look out for snakes!

as a fiduciary, she has an obligation to look out for our interests

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Meerkats' cooperation efforts include huddling together for warmth and standing to serve as a safety lookout for the group. —Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 6 Nov. 2024

The teen was outside, reportedly keeping lookout for the others. —Nate Gartrell, The Mercury News, 25 Oct. 2024

Verb

Such groups will engage residents, looking out for each other and allowing the community to be partners with law enforcement in addressing crimes in their neighborhood. —Hema Sivanandam, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024

Among the warning signs to look out for: • Companies claiming their services are superior to free services offered by accredited veteran service officers. —Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1662, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1752, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lookout

• be on the lookout for
• keep a lookout for
• on the lookout for
• someone's lookout

Kids Definition

lookout

noun

look·​out ˈlu̇k-ˌau̇t 

1

: a person who keeps watch

2

: a high place or structure from which a wide view is possible

3

: a careful looking or watching

4

: outlook sense 1b

5

: a matter of care or concern

the plants are wilting, but that's not my lookout