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

• bystander
• onlooker
• spectator
• viewer
• watcher

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 Indian government has cracked down in areas where Maoist groups are active – an approach that, while appearing to reduce the threat level, has been criticized by some observers as heavy-handed and prone to abuse. —Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 15 May 2025

Roberts, Barrett and Gorsuch are seen as key swing votes Two conservative justices — John Roberts and Amy Coney Barrett — are seen by veteran court observers as the most likely swing votes in the birthright citizenship case. —David Catanese, Miami Herald, 15 May 2025

Some observers were puzzled by news of the partnership. —Colin Harper, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025

According to The Moscow Times, Adam has received at least 16 state awards and has served as his father's chief bodyguard and an observer for a rifle battalion under the Russian Defense Ministry since 2023. —Isabel Van Brugen, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025

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