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

Raffensperger was also directed to immediately instruct all staff to admit observers and afford them reasonable proximity to meaningfully observe all activities without interfering with election operations. —CBS News, 19 May 2026

To many observers, this declaration sounded wild. —Robin George Andrews, Scientific American, 19 May 2026

However, what most observers do not realize is that the looks on that red carpet are rooted in French beauty which has a deep, fascinating history. —Pooja Mistry, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026

Some observers in Indiana, for instance, have noted that local issues—a casino project, property taxes—fed into the races there. —Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 18 May 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