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

International observers at the time said the poll was largely free and fair. —Ross Adkin, CNN Money, 27 Dec. 2025

That assessment is helping fuel growing calls from Haitian observers and international partners for the government to invest more heavily in its own security institutions. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 26 Dec. 2025

Johnson, like other observers, cited Walmart, Costco, Amazon and off-price players as performing well this season. —David Moin, Footwear News, 26 Dec. 2025

Independent election observers pushed back on allegations of systemic wrongdoing. —Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 25 Dec. 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