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

• bystander
• onlooker
• spectator
• viewer
• watcher

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

But also implicit in this genre of social media content, some critics and observers say, are more insidious messages — ones that distort our perceptions of masculinity. —Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 29 Mar. 2025

Unlike a total solar eclipse, the sun was never completely blocked, so observers needed solar viewing equipment such as solar eclipse glasses or special solar filters on their cameras, telescopes and binoculars to enjoy the sun safely. —Daisy Dobrijevic, Space.com, 29 Mar. 2025

The working group meetings will be held behind closed doors with no board members or other participants or observers. —David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025

Some observers have previously tried to justify Beyoncé’s lack of nominations at country music awards programs to her not a frequent artist in the space, as her discography has mainly been pop and R&B albums in the past. —Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 27 Mar. 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