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

The move drew criticism from some employees and observers who argued that OpenAI appeared to step in after Anthropic refused the terms. —Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 7 Mar. 2026

Jacobsen said from his standpoint with the state, the observer network represented resilience. —Conor Wight, CBS News, 7 Mar. 2026

The past week has been chaotic, and observers have been hanging on every development. —Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 7 Mar. 2026

The shift has reinforced the quiet confidence that coaches and observers have long noticed in Tien. —Douglas Robson, Los Angeles Times, 6 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