observer

noun

1. 1

   One who makes observations, monitors or takes notice.

   Most impartial observers agreed that Sampras had not served well.

   Between 8 and 9 p.m., the recorder at a meteorological station at Harrow, Middlesex, picked up 1,470 lightning flashes within a radius of 10 to 15 miles, and observers at the station described the storm as "probably one of the most spectacular of the century."

2. 2

   One who adheres or follows laws, guidelines, etc.

   I shall be an observer of the local customs.

3. 3

   A person sent as a representative, to a meeting or other function to monitor but not to participate.

   The UN sent many observers to the country's first elections.

   When the army reached Tsun-i, an enlarged Politburo meeting was called. Teng attended as an observer.

4. 4

   A country or other entity which has limited participation rights within an organization.

   The Vatican and Palestine have observer status at the UN.

5. 5

   A crew member on an aircraft who makes observations of enemy positions or aircraft.

   The only crew-member to survive the crash was the Canadian observer.

6. 6

   A sentry etc. manning an observation post.

   We waited till dusk when the observers' vision was poorest.

7. 7

   Synonym of spotter.

Forms

plural

observers