The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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peer

verb

/pɪər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of peer

To look closely or intently at something, often with the intention of gaining a clearer understanding or examining details.
"She tried to peer through the foggy window to get a glimpse of the scenery."

Detailed meaning of peer

When someone peers, they direct their gaze in a focused manner, as if trying to discern or perceive something more clearly. It involves a level of concentration and scrutiny, often involving the eyes squinting or narrowing. Peering can be done physically by leaning in or getting closer to an object or visually by concentrating attention on a particular subject or area. It is a deliberate act of observation that may indicate curiosity, suspicion, or the desire to obtain a better view or insight into a situation. Peering can also imply an attempt to see through a barrier or obstacle, such as peering through a window or peering into the darkness. Overall, the act of peering involves an intent to examine or comprehend something more closely by focusing attention and visual perception.

Example sentences containing peer

1. The child stood on tiptoes to peer over the fence and see what was happening.
2. He leaned forward to peer at the small print on the document.
3. The hikers climbed to the mountaintop to peer down at the valley below.
4. She squinted to peer into the distance and spot any signs of movement.
5. The detective used binoculars to peer at the suspicious activity across the street.
6. The scientist used a microscope to peer into the intricate details of the specimen.

History and etymology of peer

The verb 'peer' finds its etymological roots in the Old French word 'par,' meaning 'equal' or 'equivalent.' This Old French term can be further traced back to the Latin 'par,' which carries the same meaning of 'equal' or 'like.' In the context of 'peering,' the idea is to closely examine or scrutinize something to determine its equality or similarity. When we peer at something, we are essentially trying to discern its details or characteristics to better understand it. The etymology of 'peer' reflects the notion of looking closely to establish a sense of equality or likeness, emphasizing the act of careful observation and examination.

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Further usage examples of peer

1. He raised his hand to shield his eyes from the sun as he tried to peer into the horizon.
2. The photographer adjusted the lens to peer closer at the subject and capture the details.
3. She knelt down to peer at the delicate flowers growing in the garden.
4. The students crowded around the microscope to peer at the fascinating cells.
5. He crouched behind the bushes to peer at the rare bird perched on a branch.
6. She tiptoed to peer through the keyhole and see what was happening inside the room.
7. The child climbed onto a chair to peer over the counter and see what was cooking.
8. The curious cat stood on hind legs to peer at the object on the table.
9. He used a telescope to peer into the night sky and observe the stars.
10. She opened the curtains to peer outside and check the weather.
11. The archaeologist carefully brushed away the dirt to peer at the ancient artifact.
12. He angled his head to peer into the narrow alley and catch a glimpse of the cat.
13. The bird perched on a branch, tilting its head to peer at the people passing by.
14. I peer into the mist, shapes and shadows dancing, mystery in every twist.
15. They peer at codes, unlocking secrets, every line a new revelation.
16. In darkness, you peer, finding stars that tell ancient, silent stories.
17. Kids peer in awe at the vast, starry sky, imaginations running wild.
18. I peer through glass, colors blend, a spectrum of life unfolds.
19. She peers at maps, tracing routes that weave the world together.
20. We peer into art, each piece a journey into the artist’s soul.
21. He peers down wells, where echoes tell tales of forgotten wishes.
22. Through a telescope, astronomers peer, uncovering cosmic wonders.
23. Cats peer from heights, observers of a world bustling below.
24. Engineers peer at blueprints, every line shaping tomorrow’s cities.