spectator

noun

ˈspek-ˌtā-tər How to pronounce spectator (audio)
Definition of spectatornext
as in observer
someone who sees or watches something a building demolition that drew a crowd of spectators even at 3:00 a.m.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of spectator Fandom, for most casual spectators, is every four years at worst (Olympics) and every two years at best (World Championships). — Liam Tharme, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026 Hayes gives Valkyries spark Salaun was relegated to the role of spectator, but the Valkyries did not lack for scoring off the bench. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2026 For many spectators, the weeks of social media hype and frenzied media coverage leading up to the last total solar eclipse had paid off. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2026 According to investigators, the killer opened fire from a rooftop on the far side of the packed courtyard, which was full of spectators. — Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spectator
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spectator
  1. observer
  2. viewer
Noun
  • Impact response Also on the moon impact watch were observers using Lowell Observatory equipment in Arizona.
    — Leonard David, Space.com, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Even so, the difference will be subtle, with photographers and observers likely to witness a moon that looks remarkably close to totality.
    — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of observer
Noun
  • For $6/month, viewers can watch all out-of-market live preseason action on NFL+, unless the game airs on a national network, as is the case Thursday night when ESPN covers Fernando Mendoza and the Las Vegas Raiders’ trip to play the Houston Texans.
    — Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 20 Aug. 2026
  • This video takes viewers inside the arraignment process to explain how bail decisions are made and what the court's latest guidance means for defendants and their families.
    — James Ward, USA Today, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of viewer

Browse Nearby Words

spectaculars
spectator
spectators
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Cite this Entry

“Spectator.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spectator. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on spectator

Nglish: Translation of spectator for Spanish Speakers

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