observatory

American  

[uhb-zur-vuh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] / əbˈzɜr vəˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i /

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.

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observatory British  

/ -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

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Etymology

Origin of observatory

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

Example Sentences

Arctic sea ice reached its lowest level ever recorded, statistically tying last year's record, a leading US climate observatory for this geopolitically significant region said on Thursday.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

The James Webb Space Telescope is the most advanced space observatory ever built for studying the universe.

From Science Daily • Mar. 17, 2026

It is the latest step in the mission to replace the old observatory which has taken more than four-and-a-half years.

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2026

A trio of donkeys traverses a desert to an observatory.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 23, 2026

After some initial confusion over how a sheep had suddenly materialized in the observatory, the children jostled for turns to look through the lens at the unsuspecting creature.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood