English

Noun

lookout ‎(plural lookouts)

1. A vantage point with a view of the surrounding area.
2. A person on watch for approaching enemy, police, etc.

   The raid failed when the lookout noticed the enemy group.

3. A subject for observation; a prospect or view.
   • 1913, D.H. Lawrence, Sons and Lovers, chapter 6

     [...] And, you know, she OUGHT to keep enough to pay for her season-ticket; but no, she comes to me about that, and I have to find the money."

     "It's a poor lookout," said Mrs. Morel bitterly.

4. One's perspective, outlook; hence, one's responsibility. (used with a possessive pronoun or a noun in a possessive form).

   Every man's interest is his own lookout.

   • 1919, W. Somerset Maugham, The Moon and Sixpence, chapter 27

     "Strickland's painting in my studio."

     "Well?"

     [...]

     "Strickland can't work with anyone else in the studio."

     "Damn it all, it's your studio. That's his lookout."

Synonyms

• sentry
• surveillance
• vigil
• watch

Derived terms

• on the lookout

Translations

External links

• lookout in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913
• lookout in The Century Dictionary, The Century Co., New York, 1911

Anagrams

• outlook