overlook

[oh-ver-look, oh-ver-look]

verb (used with object)

1. to fail to notice, perceive, or consider.

   to overlook a misspelled word.

   Synonyms: miss

2. to disregard or ignore indulgently, as faults or misconduct.

   Only a parent could overlook that kind of behavior.

3. to look over, as from a higher position.

   a balcony that overlooks the ballroom.

4. to afford a view over; look down or out upon.

   a hill overlooking the sea.

5. to rise above.

   The Washington Monument overlooks the tidal basin.

6. to excuse; pardon.

   a minor infraction we can overlook this time.

7. to look over in inspection, examination, or perusal.

   They allowed us to overlook the proposed contract.

8. to look after, oversee, or supervise.

   She has to overlook a large number of employees.

9. Archaic.,  to look upon with the evil eye; bewitch.

noun

1. terrain, as on a cliff, that affords an attractive vista or a good view.

   Miles of landscape could be seen from the overlook.

overlook

verb

1. to fail to notice or take into account

2. to disregard deliberately or indulgently

3. to look at or over from above

   the garden is overlooked by the prison

4. to afford a view of from above

   the house overlooks the bay

5. to rise above

6. to look after

7. to look at carefully

8. to bewitch or cast the evil eye upon (someone)

noun

1. a high place affording a view

2. an act of overlooking

Word History and Origins

Origin of overlook¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English; over-, look

Synonym Study

See slight.

Example Sentences

It’s pinkies up at Wimbledon, as match-goers partake in a traditional British afternoon tea overlooking the courts.

Read more on Salon

Small inconveniences you overlook on vacation can become major issues when they are part of your daily life.

Read more on MarketWatch

Some Indian observers, meanwhile, have faulted the West for emphasizing pilot moves, whether accidental or intentional, and overlooking potential flaws in the American-made planes.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

So it’s a good time to finish the tale of an overlooked example of government accountability—albeit one far less flashy than a high-profile prosecution.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

According to the authors, the results point to a significant weakness in current prevention practices because today's guidelines may overlook individuals who would benefit from earlier detection and protective treatment.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• discount 
• forget 
• ignore 
• omit