spotter

noun

spot·​ter ˈspä-tər 

1

: one that makes or applies a spot (as for identification)

2

: one that looks or keeps watch: such as

a

: one that locates enemy targets

b

: a civilian who watches for approaching airplanes

c

: a person who assists another during exercise (as to prevent injury)

3

: one that removes spots

4

: one that places something on or in a desired spot

Examples of spotter in a Sentence

When you lift weights, you should always have a spotter.

Recent Examples on the Web

Neighboring countries have sent boats, spotter planes and rescue personnel, including a contingent of divers from French Guiana as officials prepare to switch from a rescue operation to a recovery one. — ABC News, 21 July 2026

Hundreds of miles of trails are available for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-roading, and three scenic lakes beckon anglers, kayakers, photographers, and wildlife spotters. — Allison Savage Bates, Denver Post, 19 July 2026

As a result, dancers often swap equipment during workshops or rely on spotters to safely attempt new skills. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 11 June 2026

Also, spotter planes flying along the Outer Cape have spotted great white sharks near swimming beaches. — Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 9 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spotter

• talent spotter
• trend-spotter

Rhymes for spotter

• auteur
• blotter
• cotter
• daughter
• hotter
• mater
• otter
• plotter
• rotter
• slaughter
• squatter
• totter

Kids Definition

spotter

noun

spot·​ter ˈspät-ər 

1

: a person who removes spots

2

: a person who keeps watch : observer

3

: a person who helps another during exercise (as to prevent injury)