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

Most observers would say that this version of Bentancur was not quite as effective as the one seen under Antonio Conte, more able to cover ground in the middle and drive Tottenham forward. —Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 21 Apr. 2026

Zaslav has reveled in every aspect of being a studio leader, occasionally to eye-rolling or worse from employees and observers. —Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 21 Apr. 2026

The board created an Interim Office of the CEO, including COO Jacobo Ortiz and board observer Anna Bofa, and launched a formal CEO search with Heidrick & Struggles. —Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 21 Apr. 2026

She is made superior simply by being a researcher, impartial observer, who must see without the prejudicial lens of her own culture and experience. —Hua Hsu, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 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