observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl How to pronounce observable (audio)
1
2
: capable of being observed : discernible
observability noun
observable noun
observably adverb

Examples of observable in a Sentence

the size of the observable universe scientists often work with phenomena that are not directly observable
Recent Examples on the Web October 25 – Europa is easily observable to one side of Jupiter by itself this morning using binoculars. Jenny Porter Tilley, The Indianapolis Star, 17 Oct. 2024 Messaging that traffics heavily in doomsday scenarios, rather than discussions of the everyday tumult and inconveniences caused by climate change, is likely to distract from the more observable issues (and continue to conjure partisan attacks). Jerel Ezell, TIME, 16 Oct. 2024 Among the most reliable sources for a seasonal outlook are physical drivers and climate patterns that are easily observable with consistent outcomes. Hayleigh Evans, The Arizona Republic, 14 Oct. 2024 These are the events that create the best aurora, and the extended auroral oval will be observable by most people. Jamie Carter, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for observable 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'observable.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, "that must or can be observed," borrowed from Latin observābilis "capable of being observed," from observāre "to give attention to, watch carefully, observe" + -bilis "capable (of acting) or worthy of (being acted upon)" — more at -able

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of observable was in 1589

Dictionary Entries Near observable

Cite this Entry

“Observable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/observable. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

observable

adjective
ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl How to pronounce observable (audio)
: able to be observed : noticeable
observably adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on observable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!