n. & v.
n. 1 range of vision; extent of visibility (came into view; in full view of the crowd). 2 a what is seen from a particular point; a scene or prospect (a fine view of the downs; a room with a view). b a picture etc. representing this. 3 an inspection by the eye or mind; a visual or mental survey. 4 an opportunity for visual inspection; a viewing (a private view of the exhibition). 5 a an opinion (holds strong views on morality). b a mental attitude (took a favourable view of the matter). c a manner of considering a thing (took a long-term view of it).
v. 1 tr. look at; survey visually; inspect (we are going to view the house). 2 tr. examine; survey mentally (different ways of viewing a subject). 3 tr. form a mental impression or opinion of; consider (does not view the matter in the same light). 4 intr. watch television. 5 tr. see (a fox) break cover. have in view 1 have as one's object. 2 bear (a circumstance) in mind in forming a judgement etc. in view of having regard to; considering. on view being shown (for observation or inspection); being exhibited. view halloo Hunting a shout on seeing a fox break cover. with a view to 1 with the hope or intention of. 2 with the aim of attaining (with a view to marriage). viewable adj.
[ ME f. AF v(i)ewe, OF veue fem. past part. f. veoir see f. L videre ]