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

Still, some observers see the magnitude of the problem as another manifestation of a broader affordability crisis. —Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026

But Vrabel balancing those two things may prove challenging because, as NFL observers are noting, he's tried balancing acts in the past. —Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026

For some observers, the lesson from Hungary is that Netanyahu’s opponents should look to his own camp for a candidate to unseat him. —Deborah Danan, Sun Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2026

Some observers raised concerns with the proposals. —Anna Liss-Roy The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 27 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