observatory
word
Definition
A building or place equipped for observing the sky, such as stars or planets, or sometimes for monitoring the weather or environment.
Usage & Nuances
Usually refers to a scientific facility for astronomy, but can also apply to places observing weather or environmental changes. Formal noun; commonly collocates with 'astronomical', 'weather', or 'mountain-top'.
Example Sentences
We visited the observatory to look at the stars.
basic
Did you know our local observatory hosts stargazing events for families?
natural
At night, the dome of the observatory slowly opens to reveal the telescope.
natural
Ever since the observatory was built, more people in town have become interested in space.
natural
The city built a new observatory on the hill.
basic
Scientists work at the observatory every night.
basic