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

In 2025 an international team of astronomers published a paper in the Publications of the Astronomical Society of Australia reporting a candidate for Planet Nine in the deep trans-Neptunian darkness. — Phil Plait, Scientific American, 6 Nov. 2026

Today, astronomers are closely watching another star that might explode. — Elizabeth Howell, Space.com, 6 Nov. 2026

Other groups, such as astronomers and environmentalists, oppose Starmind and orbital data center projects over fears about exorbitant rocket launch pollution and how the satellites could alter the night sky. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 4 Nov. 2026

However, astronomers will continue to remember Swift’s team and their countless accomplishments and discoveries. — Mary Ogborn, The Conversation, 4 Nov. 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