lookout

/ˌlʊkˈaʊt/

/ˈlʊkaʊt/

Other forms: lookouts

The neighborhood kids might use a tree house as a lookout, from which they can keep an eye out for the local bully.

A lookout is usually so high that a person can see for a long distance in many directions when she stands on or in it. Armies sometimes use lookouts to scout for approaching troops, and navy ships include a lookout at the top of a tall mast, also called a "crow's nest." Lookout can also be spelled as a hyphenated word, "look-out," and used as well to refer to the person whose job it is to stay in the lookout and keep watch.

Definitions of lookout

1. noun

   the act of looking out
   synonyms: outlook

   type of:

   look, looking, looking at

   the act of directing the eyes toward something and perceiving it visually
2. noun

   an elevated post affording a wide view
   synonyms: observation post

   types:

   meteorological observation post, weather station

   one of a network of observation posts where meteorological data is recorded

   type of:

   post, station

   the position where someone (as a guard or sentry) stands or is assigned to stand
3. noun

   a structure commanding a wide view of its surroundings
   synonyms: lookout station, observation tower, observatory

   types:

   observation dome

   lookout consisting of a dome-shaped observatory

   widow's walk

   a lookout atop a coastal house

   type of:

   construction, structure

   a thing constructed; a complex entity constructed of many parts
4. noun

   a person employed to keep watch for some anticipated event
   synonyms: lookout man, picket, scout, sentinel, sentry, spotter, watch

   type of:

   security guard, watcher, watchman

   a guard who keeps watch