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View synonyms for observatory

observatory

[uhb-zur-vuh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee]

noun

plural

observatories 
  1. a place or building equipped and used for making observations of astronomical, meteorological, or other natural phenomena, especially a place equipped with a powerful telescope for observing the planets and stars.

  2. an institution that controls or carries on the work of such a place.

  3. a place or structure that provides an extensive view; lookout.



observatory

/ -trɪ, əbˈzɜːvətərɪ /

noun

  1. an institution or building specially designed and equipped for observing meteorological and astronomical phenomena

  2. any building or structure providing an extensive view of its surroundings

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of observatory1

1670–80; < Latin observā ( re ) to observe + -tory 2
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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fair Isle - which is home to about 50 people - is famed for its knitwear as well as its wildlife and bird observatory.

From BBC

Krupp said the observatory was inundated with questions about how to view the Perseid meteor shower, which peaked overnight and early Wednesday.

Shane Kelly is currently the principal meteorological observer at the observatory.

From BBC

The Vera C Rubin observatory, home to the world's most powerful digital camera, promises to transform our understanding of the universe.

From BBC

Filming will still be limited to times when the observatory is not otherwise open to the public.

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observativeobserve