Lookout
ˈlʊkaʊt
Definitions
3 meaningsA person or place from which to keep watch.
ˈlʊkaʊt
A person assigned to watch for something.
The lookout on the ship spotted land.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing hide-and-seek, and someone's the 'lookout.' They're watching to make sure no one cheats and spots people hiding. They're the one who will warn their team when the seeker is near!
👶 For kids: A lookout is someone who watches for something. Like, a lookout for a pirate ship!
More Examples
We needed a lookout to warn us of the police.
He was posted as a lookout to warn of any danger
How It's Used
"The lookout spotted the iceberg and sounded the alarm."
"He acted as a lookout while his friends robbed the store."
The act of keeping watch or being on the alert.
ˈlʊkaʊt
The act of keeping watch.
The lookout was a vital task for the survival of the ship.
💡 Simply: When you have a 'lookout' you're watching, you're paying attention, and being ready for anything! Its used to be prepared to react, if you see someone at the door when you're trying to prank a friend, for example.
👶 For kids: When you keep a close watch for something, you are doing a lookout.
More Examples
He maintained a constant lookout for police officers.
The ship's lookout was posted at the top of the mast.
How It's Used
"The ship's lookout was critical to avoid dangerous situations at sea."
"We'll have someone on lookout in case the police arrive."
A warning to be careful, danger is near!
ˈlʊkaʊt
Used to warn someone of danger.
Lookout! The dog's about to bite!
💡 Simply: It's like shouting 'Watch out!' or 'Be careful!' if something is approaching!
👶 For kids: Saying "Lookout!" means "Watch out!"
More Examples
Lookout! The ball is coming your way!
How It's Used
"'Lookout! There's a car coming!' she shouted."
Idioms & expressions
keep a lookout
To watch for something.
"The ship's crew kept a lookout for pirates."
From 'look' + 'out'. Originally referred to the act of looking out, then to a person stationed to watch, and finally to a place for observation.
The term 'lookout' has been used since the 16th century in nautical contexts, and later expanded for general observation purposes.
Memory tip
Think of someone perched high, keeping a constant eye out. It is used to detect threats, identify opportunities or other critical information.
Word Origin
"The act of looking (searching with the eyes) and out (an observation)"