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 There are no bleachers, so spectators set up lawn chairs encircling the field. — Kelenna Onukwugha, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Aug. 2026 Thirty players will compete for the FedExCup as tens of thousands of spectators watch from across the course. — Leondra Head, CBS News, 27 Aug. 2026 In April 2025, Drew Fortescue walked into Madison Square Garden as a spectator, there to support Boston College teammate Gabe Perreault, then the Rangers’ top prospect suiting up to make his NHL debut. — Peter Baugh, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 Simon had been performing low-flying maneuvers while spectators on the ground watched, according to KIRO 7. — James Cirrone, FOXNews.com, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spectator
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spectator
  1. observer
  2. viewer
Noun
  • Sullivan spoke with attorneys at sidebar about the request, but the discussion was inaudible to observers in the courtroom at Plymouth Superior Court.
    — Melina Khan, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
  • To the outside observer, the hearing for the soft-spoken man with the graying mustache may have seemed like any other, save for the FBI agents from the public corruption squad sitting in the back.
    — Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of observer
Noun
  • As Moreno digested how viewers had responded to Love Island, she was gobsmacked.
    — Paula Mejía, Vulture, 27 Aug. 2026
  • The expansion comes as pro-Trump media faces headwinds and the broader industry runs into changing viewer habits.
    — Josh Feldman, NBC news, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of viewer

Browse Nearby Words

spectaculars
spectator
spectators
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spectator.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spectator. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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