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

• bystander
• observer
• onlooker
• viewer
• watcher

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

When the popular aquatic show debuted in 2010, the theater’s massive pool and multi-level stage attracted 6 million spectators during its initial run. —Spencer Whaley, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

Tens of thousands of spectators have packed St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, waiting for the white smoke that signals the election of a new pope. —Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 8 May 2025

Additional accessories included white fingerless gloves and a pair of towering platform spectator shoes teamed with sheer knee-high socks. —Bailey Richards, People.com, 6 May 2025

For best viewing, NASA advises spectators to lie flat on their back in a region away from light pollution. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 5 May 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