observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl 

1

: noteworthy

2

: capable of being observed : discernible

observability

əb-ˌzər-və-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

observable noun

observably

əb-ˈzər-və-blē 

adverb

Synonyms

• apparent
• seeable
• visible
• visual

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

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

Kids Definition

observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl 

: able to be observed : noticeable

observably

-blē 

adverb