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

While new weapons were what Western observers were eager to get a look at, the parade also featured North Korean troops who fought against Ukraine, helping to expel Kyiv’s forces from the Kursk region of Russia earlier this year. —Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 11 Oct. 2025

Americans stood for something, in a way that some observers believe many don’t anymore. —Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 10 Oct. 2025

Auto-industry observers and casual car-shoppers alike have wanted cheaper Teslas, but on the pricing front, the new models are a letdown. —Patrick George, The Atlantic, 10 Oct. 2025

In the eyes of many observers, the swiftness of Ellison’s move suggests that Skydance’s $8 billion acquisition of Paramount was part one of an ambitious strategy to take on the biggest of Big Media. —Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 10 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