overlook
overlook Lexical Profile
overlook Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To fail to notice, perceive, or consider something.
"In her haste to submit the report, she overlooked a critical calculation error on the final page."
To have a view of something from above.
"Their hotel balcony overlooks a quiet cobblestone courtyard and the harbor beyond."
To intentionally disregard, excuse, or forgive a fault, offense, or shortcoming.
"The committee decided to overlook his lack of formal experience because his portfolio was so impressive."
To pass over someone in favor of another, especially regarding a promotion, award, or opportunity.
"Despite her strong sales record, she was overlooked for the regional manager position."
• noun
American A high place or vantage point that affords a wide view over the surrounding area below.
"We stopped at a scenic overlook along the mountain highway to photograph the valley."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'overlook' (to fail to notice or to disregard) with 'oversee' (to supervise or manage). Both relate to the related contronym 'oversight,' which can mean either an unintentional error (from 'overlook') or watchful supervision (from 'oversee').
• Rhymes for overlook
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English overloken, formed from the prefix over- ('above' or 'beyond') and loken ('to look'), originally meaning to look down upon from above or to examine.