spectate

American  

[spek-teyt] / ˈspɛk teɪt /

verb (used without object)

spectated, spectating

1. to participate as a spectator, as at a horse race.

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spectate British  

/ spɛkˈteɪt /

verb

1. (intr) to be a spectator, esp at a sporting event; watch

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Usage

What does spectate mean? Literally, to spectate is to watch, observe, or witness something, as in When you’re spectating a marathon, be sure to cheer loudly for the runners when they pass. Spectate is most often used in reference to watching an event, such as a football game, concert, or even a video game. In video gaming, particularly in competitive games and esports, there is often a spectate mode in which one player can view the actions of another. In many team-based esports, when one player is eliminated from a match, their screen will start to spectate one of their teammates’ so they can continue to provide input on their actions. Depending on the video game, people can also spectate players without even being in the same group as them. In gambling, when you are betting on a competition, such as a soccer game or horse race, you are said to be spectating the competition. Figuratively, this means you are watching the event in order to place a bet on it. Sports betting and performance spectating can range from small, one-time bets to large, and sometimes illegal, gambling. Spectate is a back formation of spectator, which means someone who looks on. Example: Owen gets frustrated whenever he’s forced to spectate in his favorite video game.

Etymology

Origin of spectate

First recorded in 1700–10; back formation from spectator

Example Sentences

I love doing the NBA but that was a long time ago and I’m happy just to spectate next year and beyond.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 22, 2024

Count Philip of Flanders would often arrive at the lists with his retinue and publicly declare his intention to spectate rather than fight.

From Salon • Aug. 10, 2024

Spectators can stand at any point along the route to spectate and offer any encouragement.

From BBC • May 5, 2024

While you wait your turn or spectate in the stands, you’re looking out at terraced vineyards, the country’s third-deepest lake and the craggy peaks of the North Cascades.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 28, 2023

Nobody moved to stop the men, although a number of people, villagers and newcomers alike, went outside to spectate.

From "Stardust" by Neil Gaiman