Synonyms for

Stare

Verb / ster / Another word for stare — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To gaze fixedly at something or someone with one's eyes wide open.

Synonyms & similar words

gaze gaze look peer ogle observe survey scrutinize contemplate eye watch inspect scan study examine view behold gawk glare goggle leer

Synonyms by register

Formal

gaze scrutinize observe behold

Informal

ogle peer look hard check out

Literary

glower ogle regard

Antonyms

glance peek avert ignore disregard look away

Common collocations

  • stare into space
  • stare at the screen
  • stare out the window
  • stare blankly
  • stare in disbelief
  • stare down
  • stare at each other

Word family

noun stare
verb stare
adjective staring

Usage note

Stare implies a fixed, prolonged look, often with surprise or intensity. Avoid using 'stare' when a brief look is intended; 'glance' or 'look' would be more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. He stared out the window, lost in thought.
  2. She gave him a dirty stare when he interrupted her.
  3. The little boy stared in awe at the towering skyscraper.
  4. I always feel uncomfortable when people stare at me.
  5. The cat stared intently at the bird outside the window.

Quotes

  • "I can't go anywhere without someone staring at me." - Britney Spears
  • "You don't have to burn books to destroy a culture. Just get people to stop reading them." - Ray Bradbury
  • "I hate when people stare at me. It makes me feel like I'm a zoo animal." - Miley Cyrus

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