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

In the wake of Sinners breaking the nominations record, many observers noted the film’s total of 16 was made possible only by the introduction of a new Oscar for Achievement in Casting. —Nate Jones, Vulture, 31 Jan. 2026

Fishery observers are workers who collect data on board fishing boats for the government to use to inform regulations. —Michael Casey, Los Angeles Times, 31 Jan. 2026

Video shows that in the seconds before Pretti is shot, the 37-year-old ICU nurse grabs the observer’s backpack when he is pulled to the ground by a group of agents. —Yahya Abou-Ghazala, CNN Money, 30 Jan. 2026

The Partisan Workforce Reality No serious observer believes the federal workforce is a random cross-section of American political opinion. —James Broughel, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 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