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

Sometimes the culprit is the observer—the propagandizing correspondent, the mythologizing historian. —David Remnick, New Yorker, 21 Mar. 2026

Goodtime has failed to live up to its promise for several reasons, observers say. —Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2026

For years, observers have been ringing alarm bells of consolidation in Hollywood and the flight of productions to other countries for more generous filming subsidies. —Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 20 Mar. 2026

Most observers expect Bonta to lead a group of AGs to challenge the merger. —Ted Johnson, Deadline, 19 Mar. 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