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

• 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

Legal analysts and political observers expect the move to generate further debate about the boundaries of presidential clemency and its use as a political tool. —Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Oct. 2025

Most observers will likely just give them a cursory glance, but a pairing such as this may have made a far greater impression on ancient skywatchers. —Joe Rao, Space.com, 18 Oct. 2025

High-dollar dinners, oceanside retreats, and a birthday party for a lawmaker’s dog may fool the common observer into thinking the federal government is not in its third week of a shutdown. —Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 17 Oct. 2025

A number of observers have expressed dire warnings and anger over Ellison’s putting her in charge of news operations. —Todd Spangler, Variety, 17 Oct. 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