Added 9 October 2026
observe
/əbˈzɜːv/ verb
In Latin: observo, specto, inspicio Wiktionary
verb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about observe at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
-
To notice or view, especially carefully or with attention to detail.
From this vantage point we can observe the behavior of the animals in their natural habitat.
-
To follow or obey the custom, practice, or rules (especially of a religion).
Please observe all posted speed limits.
- To take note of and celebrate (a holiday or similar occurrence), to keep; to follow (a type of time or calendar reckoning).
noun
- An observation (remark, comment or judgement).
Origin
From Middle French observer, from Old French observer, from Latin observō (“to watch”), from ob- (“before”) + servō (“to keep”), from Proto-Indo-European *ser- (“to guard”). Cognate with Gothic 𐍃𐌰𐍂𐍅𐌰 (sarwa, “weapons, armour”), Old English searu (“device”).
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)