Ogle - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

internet search

To look at or examine something, especially something of interest, using the internet

Synonyms

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ogle	This word often has a negative connotation and is used when someone looks at someone else in a very obvious or intrusive way, usually indicating sexual interest. He couldn't help but ogle at the attractive woman passing by, much to her discomfort. Please don't ogle at people; it's really rude.
gaze	This word is used when someone looks at something for a long time with great interest, admiration, or deep thought. He gazed at the stars, lost in thought. She gazed lovingly into his eyes.
stare	This word is used when someone looks at something fixedly, often for an unusual or inappropriate amount of time, which can sometimes be considered rude. The child stared at the magician, fascinated by his tricks. It's not polite to stare at strangers.
browse	This word is used when someone looks through things casually, such as when they are shopping or looking at a collection of items. She likes to browse through the bookstore on her weekends. I was just browsing the internet for some information.

Examples of usage

I like to ogle cute animals on the internet.
She spends hours ogling pictures of celebrities online.

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

In art, ogling has often been depicted as a humorous or sometimes inappropriate gaze, illustrating societal norms about attraction.
Movies often portray characters ogling someone they're attracted to as a comedic trope, emphasizing awkwardness in romantic pursuits.
In literature, ogling is frequently described as a mix of admiration and lust, showcasing the dual nature of attraction.

Social Psychology

Research indicates that eye contact and prolonged gazing can heighten feelings of attraction between people.
When someone feels they are being ogled, it can lead to mixed feelings of flattery and discomfort, particularly when boundaries are violated.
Ogle behavior is often linked to evolutionary psychology, where visual attraction played a key role in mate selection.

Modern Usage

In today’s social media culture, the term can also describe looking at photos of attractive individuals online, often referred to as 'social media ogling.'
The word has evolved, and while it originally carried flirtatious connotations, it can now imply a more general, focused admiration.
In explicit contexts, ogling can sometimes be viewed negatively, suggesting objectification rather than appreciation.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'ogling at the screen' has become common among viewers of attractive actors or models in advertisements and films.
Many sitcoms and rom-com genres use ogling for comedic effect, illustrating the goofy side of crushes or attraction.
Fashion magazines often depict models with 'ogle-worthy' looks, emphasizing their allure through visual storytelling.

Origin of 'ogle'

Main points about word origin

The word 'ogle' comes from the early 17th century, possibly from the Scottish word 'ogil' meaning to look or stare.
It can be related to the term 'goggle', which means to stare with eyes wide open.
The original usage was more playful, suggesting a kind of flirtatious glance.

The word 'ogle' originated in the late 17th century, possibly from Low German or Dutch origins. Initially, it meant 'to eye furtively or amorously,' but over time, it has evolved to describe looking at something with interest or desire, especially on the internet.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,900, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

...
35897 ultramodern
35898 assuaging
35899 tolerantly
35900 ogle
35901 minuted
35902 plutocratic
35903 fondue
...

Ogle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations