observatory

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

noun, plural ob·serv·a·to·ries.

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.
an institution that controls or carries on the work of such a place.
a place or structure that provides an extensive view; lookout.

Origin of observatory

1670–80; < Latin observā(re) to observe + -tory2

Example sentences from the Web for observatory

British Dictionary definitions for observatory

observatory
/ (əbˈzɜːvətərɪ, -trɪ) /

noun plural -ries

an institution or building specially designed and equipped for observing meteorological and astronomical phenomena
any building or structure providing an extensive view of its surroundings