1. (v. t.) To keep close watch; to perceive with the eyes; to discover, as a distant object partly concealed, or not obvious to notice; to see at a glance; to discern unexpectedly; to spy; as, to espy land; to espy a man in a crowd.

2. (v. t.) To inspect narrowly; to examine and keep watch upon; to watch; to observe.

3. (v. i.) To look or search narrowly; to look about; to watch; to take notice; to spy.

4. (n.) A spy; a scout.