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

The government did not meet demands from the opposition and international observers for publication of the electoral council’s complete polling-station-level results so they could be independently compared with the opposition’s copies. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 24 Sep. 2026

In previous orders, Kiir has alarmed observers by dismissing important officials. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

Most observers of the Diamantis trial considered the prosecution case exceptionally strong. — Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 23 Sep. 2026

When its projectile punched through the castle’s curtain wall, observers compared the sight to an arrow ripping through cloth. — Popular Science Team, Popular Science, 23 Sep. 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