spectator

noun

spec·​ta·​tor ˈspek-ˌtā-tər 

spek-ˈtā-

1

: one who looks on or watches

2

: a shoe having contrasting colors with a perforated design at the toe and sometimes heel

spectator adjective

spectatorial

ˌspek-tə-ˈtȯr-ē-əl 

adjective

spectatorship

ˈspek-ˌtā-tər-ˌship 

spek-ˈtā-

noun

Synonyms

• observer
• viewer

Examples of spectator in a Sentence

The spectators lining the road cheered the racers on.

The accident attracted a large crowd of spectators.

I wasn't a participant in the preparations, merely a spectator.

Recent Examples on the Web

Deep breathing could be heard; birds chirped loudly outside; spectators murmured on the periphery. —Sarah Larson, New Yorker, 8 Sep. 2025

The circuit itself is decorated to fit the same era, and spectators are encouraged to dress up in outfits from the 1940s, 50s and 60s – with practically everyone getting into the spirit. —Alistair Charlton, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

Players and spectators alike are drawn to the fast pace, thrilling back-and-forth rallies and dramatic athletic feats like diving saves and towering blocks. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 8 Sep. 2025

This scenographic, differentiated storytelling transforms shoppers from passive spectators into co-authors of the brand narrative. —Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from spectare to watch

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spectator

• spectator sport

Kids Definition

spectator

noun

spec·​ta·​tor ˈspek-ˌtāt-ər 

spek-ˈtāt-

: a person who looks on (as at a sports event)

spectator adjective