observer

noun

ob·​serv·​er əb-ˈzər-vər How to pronounce observer (audio)
: 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

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 Clark County is at peak color, according to its observer. Jim Higgins, Journal Sentinel, 17 Oct. 2024 On a clear day, observers can see it from nearly everywhere in Puget Sound. Corbin Reiff, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024 But election observers say that this really isn't much of a problem. Taylor Wilson, USA TODAY, 14 Oct. 2024 Having emerged from the sun's glare, Friday, Oct. 11, was the first chance for observers in the northern hemisphere to see it about 45 minutes after sunset (get your sunset time here). Jamie Carter, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for observer 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'observer.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

observe + -er entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of observer was circa 1550

Dictionary Entries Near observer

Cite this Entry

“Observer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/observer. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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