Main Entry: ob·ser·vance

Pronunciation: \əb-ˈzər-vən(t)s\

Function: noun

Date: 13th century

1 a : a customary practice, rite, or ceremony <Sabbath observances> b : a rule governing members of a religious order
2 : an act or instance of following a custom, rule, or law <observance of the speed limits>
3 : an act or instance of watching