observer

noun

ob·​serv·​er əb-ˈzər-vər How to pronounce observer (audio)
Synonyms of observernext
: 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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The gap between those predictions and the reality on the ground suggests many observers have overstated the likelihood of war. — Ningrong Liu, Fortune, 23 Oct. 2026 The latest flashpoint was in Woodland, where an ICE agent’s vehicle collided with an observer during an operation on Tuesday, drawing condemnation from local leaders and Padilla, and an investigation by Woodland police. — Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 22 Oct. 2026 With polls showing Roy and Raman favored to win their respective races, political observers say the attempt to make Gascón relevant again may be a sign of panic from their opponents. — James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026 Once cast by some observers as the villain to Clark’s heroine, Reese has fought her way to the front of the pack and is now hoping to bask in the game’s brightest spotlight alone. — Don Riddell, CNN Money, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for observer

Word History

Etymology

observe + -er entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of observer was circa 1550

Phrases Containing observer

Rhymes for observer

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Browse Nearby Words

observedly
observer
observe the social amenities
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Cite this Entry

“Observer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/observer. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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