lookout

From the verb phrase look out.

• IPA^(key): /ˈlʊkaʊt/

lookout (plural lookouts)

1. A vantage point with a view of the surrounding area.
2. A session of watching for an approaching enemy, police, etc.

   We kept a lookout all night, but nobody came.

3. A person on watch for approaching enemy, police, danger, etc.

   The raid failed when the lookout noticed the enemy group.

4. A subject for observation; a prospect or view.
   • 1913, D.H. Lawrence, Sons and Lovers, chapter 6

     Looking, seeing: search or searching; Looking-for (B.), expectation; Lookout, a careful watching for: an elevated place from which to observe: one engaged in watching. And, you know, she OUGHT to keep enough to pay for her season-ticket; but no, she comes to me about that, and I have to find the money."

     "It's a poor lookout," said Mrs. Morel bitterly.

5. One's perspective, outlook; hence, one's responsibility. (used with a possessive pronoun or a noun in a possessive form).

   Every man's interest is his own lookout.

   • 1919, W. Somerset Maugham, The Moon and Sixpence, chapter 27

     "Strickland's painting in my studio."

     "Well?"

     […]

     "Strickland can't work with anyone else in the studio."

     "Damn it all, it's your studio. That's his lookout."

• sentry
• surveillance
• vigil
• watch

• on the lookout

• lookout in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913.
• lookout in The Century Dictionary, New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911.

• outlook