observatory

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

noun

, plural ob·serv·a·to·ries.

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of observatory¹

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

Example Sentences

The district covers a large swath of central Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley and is home to several major Hollywood studios, as well as some of the county’s best-known landmarks, including the Rose Bowl, the Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

From Los Angeles Times

Lalas spent a formulative part of his childhood in Greece, where his father, Demetrius, a professor of mechanical engineering and meteorology, was director of the national observatory in Athens.

From Los Angeles Times

Is there someone on your holiday shopping list who’s truly in their element when they’re at Griffith Observatory?

From Los Angeles Times

The South African Cultural Observatory's review of the industry in September 2022 found that the sector was in its infancy, with about 50 studios.

From BBC

Next you may wonder: Will there be enough parking at Griffith Observatory?

From Los Angeles Times