looker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, somewhat dated in the primary sense; neutral in compound/spectator sense.
Quick answer
What does “looker” mean?
A person (usually a woman) who is physically attractive in appearance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person (usually a woman) who is physically attractive in appearance.
1. One who looks or observes. 2. (In compound phrases, e.g., 'onlooker') a person who watches an event; a spectator. 3. (Obsolete/Rare) One who tends livestock (e.g., sheep-looker).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major difference in meaning. Both varieties primarily use it as an informal term for an attractive person. The compound 'looker-on' is slightly more common in British English than American.
Connotations
Equally informal. May sound slightly dated or 'film noir' in both varieties.
Frequency
Low-to-medium frequency, with a slight decline in use due to its objectifying nature. The compound 'onlooker' is high frequency.
Grammar
How to Use “looker” in a Sentence
[be] a looker[consider someone] a looker[regard as] a lookerVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used (except in historical/sociolinguistic analysis of language).
Everyday
Informal, sometimes jocular or nostalgic. 'There were several lookers at the party last night.'
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “looker”
- Using 'looker' to mean 'observer' in modern contexts (use 'onlooker' or 'observer').
- Using it in formal contexts.
- Overusing it, making speech sound dated or disrespectful.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is intended as a compliment on physical appearance but can be perceived as reductive, objectifying, or sexist, especially in formal or feminist contexts. It depends heavily on tone, relationship, and setting.
Yes, though it is less common. It is typically applied to women. For men, terms like 'handsome', 'hunk', or 'good-looking guy' are more frequent.
'Looker' (alone) means an attractive person. 'Onlooker' (a compound) means a spectator or someone watching an event.
Its peak usage was in the mid-20th century. Modern language trends favour less objectifying terms, and its informal style feels tied to that era.
A person (usually a woman) who is physically attractive in appearance.
Looker is usually informal, somewhat dated in the primary sense; neutral in compound/spectator sense. in register.
Looker: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlʊk.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlʊk.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “quite a looker”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
A LOOKER makes people LOOK (at them) twice.
Conceptual Metaphor
PHYSICAL ATTRACTIVENESS IS A COMMODITY FOR VISUAL CONSUMPTION.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'looker' most appropriately used today?