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

In addition to the departments and agencies involved in the case, the sheriff’s office thanked the observant individual who reached out to law enforcement upon the discovery of the remains. —David Chiu, People.com, 11 Aug. 2025

The biggest issue was not whether a Jew could win votes but how an observant Jew would handle the demanding job of being vice president. —Nathan Diament, New York Daily News, 7 Aug. 2025

Noun

Her photographic work draws on personal experiences to create images that are intimate in tone, observant of beauty, and rich in narrative. —Vogue, 2 July 2025

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