[+ object]
1 : to think of (someone or something) in a particular way
He is highly regarded by his coworkers. [=his coworkers have a very high opinion of him]
— often + as
She regards him as a friend. [=she considers him a friend]
He regards himself as an expert.
The book is widely regarded as his best. [=many people think the book is the best that he has ever written]
2 formal : to look at (someone or something)
The police officer regarded the group of teenagers with suspicion.