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

Long an astute observer of discovery and rediscovery, whether the subject is a city or herself, Sante—having emerged from a tight circle of luminaries including Jim Jarmusch, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Nan Goldin—is now on the precipice of a second artistic renaissance. —Literary Hub, 3 June 2026

Industry observers say these infrastructure upgrades often receive less public attention than consumer-facing technologies, despite producing significant real-world impact. —Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 2 June 2026

Political observers say that’s likely because there are 14 names on the ballot, including tech entrepreneur Adam Miller and community activist Rae Huang. —Michael R. Blood, Fortune, 2 June 2026

Yet Israel’s capture of the fort, observers say, is more a public relations victory than a military one. —Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 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