astronomer

noun

as·​tron·​o·​mer ə-ˈsträ-nə-mər 

: a person who is skilled in astronomy or who makes observations of celestial phenomena

Examples of astronomer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The exact reason for the uptick in meteor sightings during that time is unclear, but some astronomers believe the Earth passes through more large debris at that time of year. —Briana Alvarado, ABC News, 30 Mar. 2026

This phenomenon was first predicted by Albert Einstein in his magnum opus theory of how gravity works, general relativity, back in 1915, and is still a key tool for astronomers exploring the universe. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 30 Mar. 2026

The comet’s journey through the inner solar system is also drawing attention from astronomers. —Claire Dodds, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026

Astrophysicist inspired by the Torah Vera Rubin, an astronomer whose observations of galaxy rotation curves in the 1970s provided the first robust evidence for dark matter’s existence, embraced her Jewish faith as a guide to understanding her role in the universe. —Deepa Bharath, Los Angeles Times, 30 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, "one versed in astronomy or astrology," from astronomie astronomy + -er -er entry 2

Note: Alternatively, Oxford English Dictionary, third edition, and Middle English Dictionary see the English word as derived from Medieval and Late Latin astronomus "astronomer" (borrowed from Greek astronómos) plus the agent suffix -er.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for astronomer

• ionomer
• monomer