observer

noun

ob·​serv·​er əb-ˈzər-vər 

: one that observes: such as

a

: a representative sent to observe but not participate officially in an activity (such as a meeting or war)

b

: an expert analyst and commentator in a particular field

political observers

Synonyms

• spectator
• viewer

Examples of observer in a Sentence

According to one observer, the event was poorly organized.

The star is not visible to an observer without a telescope.

According to one military observer, this change comes after years of planning.

Observers say the economy is improving.

The class has an observer today, so please be on your best behavior.

Recent Examples on the Web

China’s focus on global warming and green energy, many observers argue, isn’t borne out of a genuine passion for ecology. —Robert Schmad, The Washington Examiner, 7 Sep. 2025

While North America will be on the day side during the eclipse, observers in regions including the Middle East, Asia and Australia will watch the moon turn red. —Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025

Many fans and observers argued the strike zone was called in an uneven manner. —Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 6 Sep. 2025

Meanwhile, as China faces its own challenges at home, where the ruling Communist Party is grappling with a slowing economy and persistent unemployment, some observers wonder whether drumming up nationalism as a distraction strategy could push China into an even more aggressive stance. —Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 6 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

observe + -er entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing observer

• casual observer
• inter-observer

Rhymes for observer

• preserver
• fervor
• fervour
• server