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

Since the budget cuts were announced in March, astronomers have rallied together to #SaveChandra, compiling their case for the observatory into a website. —Briley Lewis, Popular Science, 25 Apr. 2024

The first recorded sighting of a Lyrid meteor show, dates back to 687 BC by the Chinese, astronomers say. —USA TODAY, 21 Apr. 2024

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