Ob-sĕrve'1, v. t.
(ob-zĕrv',14), v. t. [imp. & p. p. OBSERVED; p. pr. & vb. n. OBSERVING.] [Fr. observer, Pr. & Sp. observar, It. osservare, Lat. observare, from prefix ob and servare, to preserve, heed, keep. The sense is, to keep in view, or to keep the eyes on.]
Sense 1. To be on the watch respecting; to pay attention to; to notice with care; as, to observe an eclipse; to observe a strange phenomenon; to observe the color or fashion of a dress. “Ever to observe his providence.” Milton.
Sense 2. To treat with obsequious attention; to humor. Must I budge? must I observe you? Shak.
Sense 3. To regard with religious or ceremonious care; to celebrate. Ye shall observe the feast of unleavened bread. Ex. xii. 17.
Sense 4. To express as what has been noticed; to utter as a remark; to say in a casual or incidental way.
Sense 5. To comply with; to obey; to adhere to in practice; as, to observe the rules and regulations of a society. With solemn purpose to observe Immutably his sovereign will. Milton.