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 of observer

• 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

While there’s some disagreement among close observers of the project about when exactly that chain reaction must begin to meet the 2031 deadline, the consensus is that major decisions need to be made in roughly the next two months. —Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 9 June 2026

Whatever the reasons for defaults, housing observers are most concerned that the guardrails put in place after the housing crisis are no longer there to help. —Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 9 June 2026

Ballot processing is open to public observers, and election officials routinely have observers who are sent there on behalf of candidates, political parties or government agencies. —Linh Tat, Daily News, 9 June 2026

Now observers, officials, experts and critics point to the wariness, anxiety and heartbreak the recent high-profile cases — particularly Artan’s removal from MIA — are creating. —Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 9 June 2026

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