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Look Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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look

look

🇺🇸 /ˈɫʊk/ · 🇬🇧 /lˈʊk/

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to gaze or glance at something

To direct one's gaze in a specified direction. To have a particular appearance or facial expression. To search for something, often in a casual or nonchalant manner. To seem likely to be or do something.

Synonyms

gaze, glance, observe, peer, stare.

Examples of usage

  • He looked out of the window and saw the beautiful sunset.
  • She looked happy when she received the good news.
  • He looked for his keys all over the house.
  • The weather looks promising for our picnic tomorrow.
Context #2 | Noun

appearance or visual impression

The appearance or visual impression of a person or thing. The way in which someone appears or is regarded.

Synonyms

appearance, aspect, glance, impression, view.

Examples of usage

  • She has a sophisticated look with her elegant attire.
  • His tired look indicated he had been working hard.
  • The new car has a sleek and modern look.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Quick facts about “look”

Look is a 1-syllable verb and noun. It is pronounced /ˈɫʊk/ in American English and /lˈʊk/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 10 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #343 among the most common English words.

Did you know?

“look” in psychology

  • People can interpret a 'look' differently based on context – a smile can mean happiness, while a frown can show sadness.
  • Studies show that eye contact plays a significant role in social interactions and can influence feelings of connection.
  • The way someone 'looks' at you can have emotional effects, suggesting trust or discomfort.

“look” in pop culture

  • The phrase 'Look before you leap' is a popular saying that encourages caution in decision-making.
  • In movies, a character's facial expressions and looks can tell a story without needing words.
  • Fashion shows often highlight the importance of how someone 'looks', influencing trends and styles.

“look” in literature

  • 'Look' appears frequently in poetry as a way to evoke imagery and emotion, inviting readers to visualize scenes.
  • Authors often use the word to describe characters’ reactions to their environment, deepening emotional impact.
  • The phrase 'take a look' is common in storytelling, urging readers to observe details that lead to plot twists.

“look” in art

  • In visual art, artists often emphasize the 'look' of their work to evoke feelings or challenge perceptions.
  • The 'look' of a painting can reflect a period's cultural norms or emotional state.
  • Art critics frequently analyze how an artist's choice of 'look' affects the viewer's experience.

Origin of 'look'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'look' comes from the Old English word 'locian', which means 'to see'.
  • It has been used in the English language for over a thousand years, showing its long history.
  • The root of the word is linked to the Proto-Germanic '*lokōnan', highlighting connections among Germanic languages.

The word 'look' originated from the Old English word 'lōcian', meaning 'to look, gaze, or glance'. Over the centuries, the meaning of 'look' has evolved to encompass various ways of directing one's gaze or searching for something. It is a common and versatile word used in everyday language to describe visual perception and appearances.


See also: lookalike, looking, lookout, onlooker, onlookers, outlook, overlook, overlooked.

Rhymes

Look rhymes with chinook, overcook, precook, schnook, snook, took, book and shook.

See all rhymes →

Word Frequency Rank

With position #343, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.