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Definition of spectate

spectate

/ˈspɛk.teɪt/
spec · tate
Adjective:spectatorial
•
Past Simple:spectated
•
Past Participle:spectated
•
Present Participle:spectating
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spectate Lexical Profile

spectate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To watch an event, game, or activity as a member of an audience rather than taking part as a participant.

Example

"Thousands of fans gathered along the marathon route to spectate and cheer for the runners."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for spectate

• Rhymes for spectate

• Nearby Words

spectacular
spectacularity
spectacularly
spectate
spectator
spectatorship
spectatrix

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century as a back-formation from the noun 'spectator', which ultimately derives from the Latin verb 'spectare' ('to watch' or 'to look at'), the frequentative of 'specere' ('to look').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spectate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spectate
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