Overlook

Definition

Overlook can mean to fail to notice or consider something or someone. It can also signify a vantage point or location that provides a broad view of a landscape below.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌoʊvərˈlʊk/
• Respelling: oh-ver-LOOK (with "oh" as in "go," "ver" as in "very," and "LOOK" as in "look")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌəʊvəˈlʊk/
• Respelling: oh-ver-LOOK (with "oh" as in "go," "ver" as in "very," and "LOOK" as in "look")

In both dialects, "overlook" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "LOOK." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "oh-ver-LOOK."

Etymology

The term "overlook" originates from the combination of "over-" (meaning above or more than) and the verb "look." In its earliest usage, "overlook" meant to view from a higher position. Over time, its meanings expanded to include the act of neglecting or ignoring.

Derivatives

• Overlooker
• Overlooking
• Overlooked
• Overlookable
• Overlookership

Synonyms

• Miss
• Neglect
• Disregard

Antonyms

• Notice
• Observe
• Heed

Usage

• In Neglect Context: Refers to not noticing or considering something by mistake or intentionally.
• In Viewing Context: Means to gaze upon or watch from a higher position.‍
• Location Context: An elevated place that provides a broad view, often used in the names of specific places or viewpoints.

Related Terms

• Ignore
• Omit
• Bypass
• Vantage point
• Observation point

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Neglect Context: To fail to notice, perceive, or consider, either accidentally or intentionally.
• Example: "The manager overlooked the error in the report."

• Viewing Context: To watch or gaze upon from an elevated position.
• Example: "From the hill, you can overlook the entire city."

Noun

• Location Context: A high place or vantage point from which a person can view a landscape.
• Example: "The overlook at the national park offers breathtaking views of the canyon."