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 fact, in 2017 a group of astronomers proposed a different planetary definition that would include Pluto—however, their definition would also include more than a dozen moons of the outer planets as well, which seems a bit too welcoming. —Phil Plait, Scientific American, 8 May 2026

The atmospheric discovery of the world, called a trans-Neptunian object (TNO), was described by Japanese astronomers in a publication in the journal Nature Astronomy. —Justin Klawans, TheWeek, 8 May 2026

The first of these explosions was spotted in 2018, and only 14 have been detected since, leading to a solid mystery for astronomers. —Robert Lea, Space.com, 8 May 2026

But Khayyam was also a renowned mathematician and astronomer in what is now Iran. —René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 May 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