observatory Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a building designed and equipped to observe astronomical phenomena
  2. noun a structure commanding a wide view of its surroundings
    lookout; lookout station; observation tower.

WordNet

Ob*serv"a*to*ry noun
Etymology
Cf. F. observatoire.
Wordforms
plural Observatories
Definitions
  1. A place or building for making observations on the heavenly bodies.
    The new observatory in Greenwich Park. Evelyn.
  2. A building fitted with instruments for making systematic observations of any particular class or series of natural phenomena.
  3. A place, as an elevated chamber, from which a view may be observed or commanded.
  4. (Mil.) A lookout on a flank of a battery whence an officer can note the range and effect of the fire. Farrow.

Webster 1913