Window shopping

/wˈɪndəʊ ʃˈɒpɪŋ/

/wˈɪndoʊ ʃˈɑːpɪŋ/

[noun]

Window shopping

[NOUN]

the activity of just looking at the goods in the windows of stores without going inside and buying anything

What is the origin of the idiom "window shopping" and when to use it?

The idiom "window shopping" comes from looking at items displayed in store windows without intending to make a purchase. It refers to browsing stores or online shops for enjoyment or ideas without the intention of buying anything.

Examples

1. Jane and Sarah loved window shopping in the city's shopping district on weekends.

2. She did window shopping to find gift ideas for her friends.

3. He went window shopping at the mall before meeting his friends for dinner.

4. Start window shopping.

Nearby words