look-in

American  

[look-in] / ˈlʊkˌɪn /

noun

1. a brief glance.

2. a short visit.

3. Football. a quick pass play in which the ball is thrown to a receiver running a short diagonal pattern across the center of the field.

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look-in British  

noun

1. a chance to be chosen, participate, etc

2. a short visit

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verb

1. to pay a short visit

Etymology

Origin of look-in

First recorded in 1840–50; noun use of verb phrase look in

Example Sentences

Artists hail from various ethnic groups and Nigeria's huge diaspora gets a look-in as well.

From BBC • Oct. 7, 2025

Plenty of actresses on the come-up might have chosen a walk around these streets — and maybe a look-in at a few of the fashion flagships — as an afternoon activity.

From New York Times • Jun. 28, 2023

There isn’t a limit on how long each look-in can last.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 7, 2022

It has the additional, considerable look-in value of the always-trenchant John Douglas Thompson as Shylock, a Black actor and casting choice that introduces not only irresistible theatrical heft, but also the intersectional issue of race.

From Washington Post • Mar. 6, 2022

I figured there'd be a couple of weeks here at the least—you'd go lookin' for gold, an' maybe find it, an' I'd git a look-in.

From Isle o' Dreams by Coleman, Ralph P. (Ralph Pallen)