observer

[uhb-zur-ver]

noun

1. someone or something that observes.

2. a delegate to an assembly or gathering, who is sent to observe and report but not to take part officially in its activities.

3. U.S. Air Force.

   1. a member of an aircrew, other than the pilot, holding an aeronautical rating.

   2. a person who maintains observation in an aircraft during flight.

4. Also called air observer,. Also called aircraft observer. U.S. Army.,  a person who serves in an aircraft as a reconnoiterer and directs artillery fire.

Other Word Forms

• observership noun
• interobserver noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of observer¹

First recorded in 1545–55; observe + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Some observers, such as campaigner Greta Thunberg, have accused previous COPs of "greenwashing" - letting countries and businesses promote their climate credentials without actually making the changes needed.

Read more on BBC

But observers are not sure it will last.

Read more on BBC

California, described by one observer in the late 19th century as “the Jews’ earthly paradise” for the economic and social promise it held, seems to have become newly hostile to Jewish people in recent years.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Many observers and legal experts have said the killings amount to murder.

Read more on Salon

Many political observers would agree that the Democratic Party has lacked a “tangible vision” for many years.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• bystander 
• onlooker 
• viewer 
• watcher 
• witness