verb
observe
To follow a rule or established custom.
Everyone in the laboratory observes strict rules for handling chemicals.
Etymology
Latin observare means to watch, heed, or keep. Following a custom preserves the heed-and-keep sense: one maintains it through conduct.
More examples
- Please observe the posted speed limit.
- The crowd observed a moment of silence before the game.
- Our family observes the holiday with a special meal.
Forms
observe · observes · observed · observing
observance noun — The practice of following rules or customs.