Definitions

spectator

[spek-tey-ter, spek-tey-] / ˈspɛk teɪ tər, spɛkˈteɪ- /

NOUN

person who watches event

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bystander fan moviegoer observer onlooker sports fan theatergoer viewer

STRONG

beholder clapper eyewitness kibitzer looker looker-on perceiver playgoer seer standee watcher witness

WEAK

gaper gazer showgoer stander-by

Antonyms

STRONGEST

participant

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For years I’ve called the Herndon Climb America’s next great spectator sport.

From Slate • Jun. 24, 2026

"Film is an act of truthfulness, not happening on the screen but in the heart and in the guts of the spectator," he said.

From Barron's • Jun. 19, 2026

But maybe it can also be an exorcism: Tracy Morgan wasn’t the only spectator who likened the unadulterated glee lighting up the city to the final scene in “Ghostbusters.”

From Salon • Jun. 17, 2026

Gil was just a spectator on the play, with no chance to best the save.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 13, 2026

Her crisp seersucker suit, spectator pumps and gloves informed me that she was proper and serious.

From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou

Vocabulary lists containing spectator

Vocabulary of the Summer Olympics

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Maniac Magee

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100 SAT words Beginning with "S"

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