observatory

noun

ob·​ser·​va·​to·​ry əb-ˈzər-və-ˌtȯr-ē 

plural observatories

1

: a building or place given over to or equipped for observation of natural phenomena (as in astronomy)

also : an institution whose primary purpose is making such observations

2

: a situation or structure commanding a wide view

Synonyms of observatory

• tower
• overlook
• lookout

Examples of observatory in a Sentence

the observatory is located on a mountaintop

Recent Examples on the Web

Missions such as the European Space Agency’s Planck space observatory have mapped this ancient signal with extraordinary precision. —Paul M. Sutter, Scientific American, 27 Mar. 2026

Up on 71, there was that observatory, and by the elevators a vitrine held Chrysler’s toolbox, evidence of his beginnings as a railroad mechanic. —Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 27 Mar. 2026

As both observatories continue their missions, researchers plan to build on these observations, tracking Saturn's evolving atmosphere, monitoring storm systems and refining models of its complex climate. —Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 26 Mar. 2026

Open every Friday night and for special events, the observatory offers a variety of telescopes through which to view the galaxy under its 18-foot dome. —Susan McDonald, The Providence Journal, 26 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin observātōrium "place for observing celestial phenomena," from Latin observāre "to give attention, watch carefully, observe" + -tōrium, suffix of place, noun derivative from neuter of -tōrius, deverbal adjective suffix originally forming derivatives from agent nouns ending in -tōr-, -tor

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for observatory

• accusatory
• admonitory
• ambulatory
• amendatory
• celebratory
• circulatory
• combinatory
• commendatory
• compensatory
• condemnatory
• confirmatory
• confiscatory

Kids Definition

observatory

noun

ob·​ser·​va·​to·​ry əb-ˈzər-və-ˌtōr-ē 

-ˌtȯr-

plural observatories

1

: a place or institution equipped with instruments for observation of natural objects and events (as in astronomy)

2

: a place providing a wide view