Gaze is a term used in critical theory, philosophy, sociology, and psychoanalysis to describe an individuals awareness and perception of other individuals, other groups, or oneself. In a more general sense, gaze refers to looking at something or someone for a long time, especially in surprise or admiration, or because you are thinking about something else. Here are some examples of how the word "gaze" is used:

• "She gazed intently into his eyes"
• "Annette gazed admiringly at Warren as he spoke"
• "To gaze is to look steadily and intently at something, especially at that which excites admiration, curiosity, or interest"

In critical theory, the concept of gaze has been defined and explained by philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Michel Foucault. The gaze can be understood in psychological terms as a relationship of power, in which the gazer is superior to the object of the gaze.