overlook
UK: ˌəʊvəˈlʊk | US: ˌoʊvərˈlʊk
vt. to fail to notice or consider something
vt. to deliberately ignore or disregard
vt. to have a view from above (e.g., a high place)
The word "overlook" combines "over" (from Old English "ofer," meaning "above" or "across") and "look" (from Old English "lōcian," meaning "to see"). Originally, it literally meant "to look over or survey from above," often implying a vantage point. Over time, it developed figurative meanings—first as "to inspect or supervise," then shifting to "to miss noticing" (early 16th century) due to the idea of seeing from a distance without close attention. The modern dual meanings reflect this logical progression: physical oversight (viewing) and cognitive oversight (missing details).
The manager overlooked a critical error in the report.
From the tower, you can overlook the entire city.
She chose to overlook his rude comment.
The detective overlooked an important clue.
Our hotel room overlooks the beach.