overlook
13 synonyms and 2 antonyms for overlook, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To fail to notice something, or to miss it despite it being there.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use overlook
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
overlook a detail
overlook the harbour
overlook a mistake
Etymology
From Middle English overloken, formed from over- + look.
Full origin of overlook →Frequently asked questions
What does “overlook” mean?
The word “overlook” means to fail to notice something, or to miss it despite it being there. In plain terms, either missing something by accident, deciding to let it go, or physically having a view down over an area.
How do you pronounce “overlook”?
“Overlook” is pronounced OH-vuh-luuk (/ˈoʊ.vɚˌlʊk/ in IPA).
How do you use “overlook” in a sentence?
Here is “overlook” used in a sentence: “The editor overlooked a glaring typo on the front page.”
What part of speech is “overlook”?
Depending on how it is used, “overlook” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “overlook” come from?
The word “overlook” comes from Middle English. From Middle English overloken, formed from over- + look.
Is “overlook” a common word?
“Overlook” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “overlook” have?
“Overlook” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to fail to notice something, or to miss it despite it being there.
