observant

1 of 2

adjective

ob·​ser·​vant əb-ˈzər-vənt 

1

a

: paying strict attention : watchful

an observant spectator

b

: keen, perceptive

observant of the mistakes of others

Good reporters are keenly observant of everything around them.

2

: careful in observing rites, laws, or customs : mindful

pious and religiously observant families

—Sidney Hook

always observant of the amenities

observantly adverb

observant

2 of 2

noun

obsolete

: an assiduous or obsequious servant or attendant

Synonyms

Adjective

• alert
• vigilant
• awake
• watchful
• aware
• attentive
• careful

Examples of observant in a Sentence

Adjective

A particularly observant child, he noticed even the slightest changes in the classroom.

Good reporters are keenly observant of everything around them.

The family is strictly observant.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

His son, more attentive than him, more observant than even his wife. —Literary Hub, 10 June 2025

Carmichael is an entertaining and observant narrator of his own story, and, ultimately, even jokes about Pop-Tarts or Donald Trump or blowjobs are suggestive reflections of the comedian who tells them. —Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 23 May 2025

Noun

Each crisp line stands exposed, a quiet demonstration of craftsmanship designed for the observant. —Spencer Elliott, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025

Harriet the Spy Harriet the Spy brought Trachtenberg's true star power front and center as the curious, observant Harriet M. Welsch. —Angela Andaloro, People.com, 26 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

borrowed from Latin observant-, observans, present participle of observāre "to give attention to, observe"

Noun

probably borrowed from French, "someone who observes a religious rule," noun derivative from present participle of observer "to observe"

First Known Use

Adjective

1599, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1605, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for observant

• maidservant
• manservant
• fervent
• servant

Kids Definition

observant

adjective

ob·​ser·​vant

əb-ˈzər-vənt

1

: paying careful attention : watchful

2

: quick to observe : keen

3

: careful in observing : mindful

observantly adverb