observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl How to pronounce observable (audio)
1
2
: capable of being observed : discernible
observability noun
observable noun
observably adverb

Examples of observable in a Sentence

the size of the observable universe scientists often work with phenomena that are not directly observable
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Muchacho Alegre, 2250 Jacksboro Highway, had a score of 19 and was closed because of observable roaches near the stove and issues with water temperature. Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 May 2025 This approach not only reduces risk but also builds confidence across the team through clear, observable progress. Kunal Abichandani, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 But this lower end of the galactic scale is still rather murky, in part because the stars that serve as observable tracers of small galaxies can form even smaller structures called star clusters. Phil Plait, Scientific American, 8 May 2025 While individuals will sometimes swim to the shallows, the squids gather en masse at observable depths during their mating event. Jules Jacobs, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for observable

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, "that must or can be observed," borrowed from Latin observābilis "capable of being observed," from observāre "to give attention to, watch carefully, observe" + -bilis "capable (of acting) or worthy of (being acted upon)" — more at -able

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of observable was in 1589

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Cite this Entry

“Observable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/observable. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

observable

adjective
ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl How to pronounce observable (audio)
: able to be observed : noticeable
observably adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on observable

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