ob•serve
Pronunciation: (ub-zûrv'), [key]
— v., -served, -serv•ing.
—v.t.
- to see, watch, perceive, or notice: He observed the passersby in the street.
- to regard with attention, esp. so as to see or learn something: I want you to observe her reaction to the judge's question.
- to watch, view, or note for a scientific, official, or other special purpose: to observe an eclipse.
- to state by way of comment; remark: He observed frequently that clerks were not as courteous as they used to be.
- to keep or maintain in one's action, conduct, etc.: You must observe quiet.
- to obey, comply with, or conform to: to observe laws.
- to show regard for by some appropriate procedure, ceremony, etc.: to observe Palm Sunday.
- to perform duly or solemnize (ceremonies, rites, etc.).
- to note or inspect closely for an omen or sign of future events.
—v.i.
- to notice.
- to act as an observer.
- to remark or comment (usually fol. by on or upon).
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.