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

Its observations provide astronomers with a powerful tool for studying the distribution of hydrogen and, consequently, the structure and evolution of galaxies. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2026

Sixty years later, astronomers have confirmed more than 6,000 planets beyond the Solar System, known as exoplanets. — Alix Freckelton, Space.com, 8 Sep. 2026

Today, producers Amanda Lipitz, Henry Tisch, and Jordan Roth, announced additional casting for Galileo, the new musical inspired by the life of groundbreaking astronomer and scientist Galileo Galilei. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2026

Using huge infrared telescopes that can see through that veil of dust, astronomers have been able to watch some of these stars swirling around the black hole. — Phil Plait, Scientific American, 4 Sep. 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