The word "looker-on" refers to someone who observes a situation, event, or activity without actively participating in it. Some synonyms for this term include bystander, spectator, onlooker, witness, and observer. A bystander is someone who is present at an event but is not directly involved in it. A spectator is someone who watches a performance, sports game, or other public event. An onlooker is someone who watches an event without being part of it. A witness is someone who sees an event or crime occur and can provide testimony about it. An observer is someone who carefully watches or studies a situation or phenomenon. These synonyms are all useful when describing someone who is watching but not participating.