lay eyes on
Catch sight of
To lay eyes on something is to see it, usually for the first time or after a long absence: I knew I loved her the moment I laid eyes on her, He was the ugliest dog I'd ever laid eyes on.
The phrase emphasizes the impact of visual contact rather than mere seeing.
Often appears with negatives: I haven't laid eyes on him in years.
Fixed, intent look
- stareProlonged fixed gaze
- lookDirect one's gaze
- glanceBrief, casual look
- watchPortable timekeeping device
scrutiny · inspection · regard · viewing · peek · peep · survey · examination
Intense sudden wonder
- amazementOverwhelming surprise and wonder
- disbeliefRejection of truth claims
- shockViolent sudden disturbance
- aweReverent fear and wonder
wonder · marvel · stunned · speechless · gobsmacked · thunderstruck · stupefaction · bewilderment
glimpse
Fleeting view
behold · sight · witness · perceive · recognize · meet · view · espy · come across · catch sight of
gaze
Fixed, intent look
watch · scrutiny · inspection · regard · viewing · peek · peep · survey · examination · scan
astonishment
Intense sudden wonder
- amazementOverwhelming surprise and wonder
- disbeliefRejection of truth claims
- shockViolent sudden disturbance
awe · wonder · marvel · stunned · speechless · gobsmacked · thunderstruck · stupefaction · bewilderment · incredulity
lay eyes onoverlook
Miss or commanding view
miss · lose sight of · look past · ignore · look right through