observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl 

1

: noteworthy

the trend is observable all over the country

2

: capable of being observed : discernible

the size of the observable universe

observability

əb-ˌzər-və-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

observable noun

observably

əb-ˈzər-və-blē 

adverb

Synonyms of observable

• visible
• visual
• noticeable

Examples of observable in a Sentence

the size of the observable universe

scientists often work with phenomena that are not directly observable

Recent Examples on the Web

This expectation has no observable foundation in Xi’s 14-year rule. — Jonathan A. Czin, The Atlantic, 14 Sep. 2026

Coaches should slow the process down, challenge the story the executive is telling about the data and turn feedback into a few observable behavior changes, not a prettier report. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Behaviorists emphasized observable behavior, which could be measured experimentally, and generally avoided using imperceptible internal mental states to explain behavior. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 Sep. 2026

This configuration would allow the stealth fighter to preserve its low observable characteristics during combat operations. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 24 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, "that must or can be observed," borrowed from Latin observābilis "capable of being observed," from observāre "to give attention to, watch carefully, observe" + -bilis "capable (of acting) or worthy of (being acted upon)" — more at -able

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for observable

• unobservable

Kids Definition

observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl 

: able to be observed : noticeable

observably

-blē 

adverb