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.
All of which makes, from an observer’s viewpoint at least, the whole thing feel like a complete waste of time. — Nick Miller, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026 When the largest fire recorded in the history of Channel Islands National Park erupted on Santa Rosa Island in May, observers feared for the park’s rare Torrey pines. — Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026 And Quatraro erupted in a manner unseen before by most observers. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026 And yet, this year, many observers have noted that the equilibrium feels off. — Nate Jones, Vulture, 2 Sep. 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 4 Sep. 2026.

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