looky
word
Definition
An informal, old-fashioned word referring to a person who looks around with curiosity, often used in a playful or teasing way. Commonly appears in the phrase 'looky-loo' for onlookers or bystanders.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal, somewhat old-fashioned, most common in North American English. Usually playful or teasing; rare in written formal English. Often heard as 'looky-loo' for people who watch without getting involved. Not standard English—avoid in formal writing.
Example Sentences
That looky keeps peeking through the window.
basic
Hey, looky, what are you doing over there?
basic
Don’t be such a looky at other people’s business.
basic
He acts like a real looky when the neighbors argue – always watching from behind the curtain.
natural
A couple of lookies showed up just to see the fire trucks.
natural
Every neighborhood has that one looky who always knows what’s going on.
natural