Lookout

/ˈlʊkaʊt/ noun

Definition

A person keeping watch for danger, or a place from which you can see a wide view; also a warning phrase meaning 'be careful.'

Etymology

Compound of 'look' and 'out.' Originally described a person stationed to watch, later also the elevated tower or platform where they stood. The warning exclamation developed from telling someone to 'watch out.'

Kelly Says

The same word describes both the watcher and the watched-from location—and sailors still shout 'Lookout!' to warn of danger. It's one of those old maritime terms that shaped how English speakers talk about attention.

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