English · Word Candidate

overlook

/ˈəʊ.vəˌlʊk/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: overlooks · overlooking

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A vista or point that gives a view down toward something else.

Noun

Examples

Normally a visitor does not participate in one activity to the exclusion of others. One main activity, such as swimming, will be supplemented by other activities and use of other facilities, such as picnicking, hiking, stopping at an overlook, and so forth.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

To offer a view (of something) from a higher position.

Verb

Examples

Our hotel room overlooks the lake.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To fail to notice; to look over and beyond (anything) without seeing it.

Verb

Examples

These errors were overlooked by the proofreaders.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “overlook” mean?

A vista or point that gives a view down toward something else.

Is “overlook” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.