Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of looking out: The action of watching carefully, especially for danger or for something expected to appear.
   • A structure commanding a wide view: A building or platform, often on a high place, designed to give a broad view of the surrounding area.
   • An elevated post affording a wide view: A high place or position used for observing a wide area.
   • A person employed to keep watch: An individual whose job is to watch for something specific, such as danger, illegal activity, or the approach of someone or something.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Act of looking out):

  • Keeping a sharp lookout for icebergs was the crew's most important duty.
  • The hikers maintained a constant lookout for bears on the trail.

• Noun (Structure):

  • We climbed to the fire lookout on top of the mountain.
  • The old coastal lookout is now a tourist attraction.

• Noun (Elevated post):

  • The soldier stood guard in the lookout.
  • From his lookout in the crow's nest, the sailor spotted land.

• Noun (Person):

  • The gang had a lookout posted at the corner of the street.
  • During the strike, union members acted as lookouts for management.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on the lookout (for someone/something)": To be watching carefully in order to find, see, or avoid someone or something.

  • Be on the lookout for suspicious packages.
  • I'm always on the lookout for a good bargain.

• "to keep a lookout": To act as a lookout; to maintain a watch.

  • You keep a lookout while I try to open the door.

Variants and Related Words

• Lookout point (n): A specific location, often scenic, that provides a wide view.

  • We stopped at a lookout point to take photographs of the valley.

• Lookout tower (n): A tall structure built for observation.

  • The forest ranger works in a lookout tower.

Synonyms

• Watch: The act of observing or the person who observes.
• Observation post: A position from which to watch an area.
• Sentinel: A person or thing that stands guard.
• Vantage point: A place that provides a good view.

Related Phrases

• Look out (phrasal verb): To be careful; to watch for potential danger. (Note: This is the phrasal verb form, written as two words).
  • Look out! There's a car coming!
  • You should look out for pickpockets in this market.

Related Idioms

• That's your (own) lookout: That is your own responsibility or concern. (Chiefly British English).
  • If you want to invest in such a risky venture, that's your own lookout.

Noun

1. the act of looking out
2. a structure commanding a wide view of its surroundings
3. an elevated post affording a wide view
4. a person employed to keep watch for some anticipated event