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

His injury forced him into the role of spectator as the Pelicans got swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. —Bobby Krivitsky, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025

Rows of spectators in Boston’s TD Garden, from the ice to the rafters, got to their feet in a standing ovation as American flags were unfurled throughout the crowd. —Story Hinckley, Christian Science Monitor, 29 Mar. 2025

During last year's total solar eclipse, spectators in the path of totality witnessed a stunning sight as the Earth, sun and moon perfectly aligned for a few minutes. —Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2025

How to safely watch the partial solar eclipse Just like during the total solar eclipse, spectators should plan to wear safety glasses or take steps to otherwise protect their eyes from the sun's harmful ray. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 24 Mar. 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