Definition

Verb: - To look at items displayed in shop windows without the intention of entering the store to make a purchase. It involves browsing or examining merchandise visually for pleasure or to see what is available, but not actually buying anything at that time.

Usage

The verb "window-shop" describes the specific activity of looking at store displays from outside. It is often a leisurely or recreational activity. It is typically used in the present or past continuous tenses to describe the ongoing action.

Examples

• Verb:
  • On Saturday afternoons, we often window-shop along the main street.
  • She spent an hour window-shopping at the mall but didn't buy a single thing.
  • They were just window-shopping to get ideas for their home renovation.

Advanced Usage

• "To go window-shopping": This is a common phrase meaning to go out with the specific purpose of looking at shop displays.
  • We don't have any money, so let's just go window-shopping.

Variants and Related Words

• Window-shopper (noun): A person who window-shops.
  • The sidewalks were filled with window-shoppers.

Synonyms

• Browse: To look at items casually, often without a specific intent to buy.
• Look around: To inspect or examine a place, such as a shopping area.

Antonyms

• Shop: To visit stores for the purpose of purchasing goods.
• Buy: To acquire something in exchange for money.

Verb

1. examine the shop windows; shop with the eyes only