# spotter

/ˈspɑtɝ/ (US) · /spˈɒtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spotter
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a person who watches an area or a group of people to find something specific, like a lost child or a criminal. They often use binoculars or a telescope to see far away.

For teachers: a person who observes a specific area or group of people to locate a particular target or identify a specific occurrence. Often used in contexts such as law enforcement, aviation, or public safety.

## Examples

- The spotter found the lost child in the crowd.
- During the parade, a trained spotter stood on the rooftop to ensure the float stayed on the correct route.
- The rescue team deployed a spotter to the highest point of the cliff, where the vantage allowed for a clear view of the entire coastline and any potential hazards.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.