An observer is someone who watches or observes an event, person, or thing with the intent to gain knowledge or insight. The term observer can be used interchangeably with words such as spectator, onlooker, witness, or viewer, to name a few. Each of these synonyms conveys the same meaning as an observer, with slight variations in connotation.
A spectator is typically used to describe someone watching a sporting event or performance. An onlooker suggests passive observation of a situation or scene. A witness is someone who has seen or experienced something, often in a legal context. Finally, a viewer may describe someone watching a movie or television show.
Ultimately, all these synonyms for observer convey the same idea: someone who watches or observes with the intention of gaining understanding or insight.