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.
By defining passion based on observable actions and outcomes, rather than emotional expressiveness, companies can create a more level playing field. ForbesWomen: Get the ForbesWomen newsletter, and supercharge your mission with success stories, tips and more. Lindsay Kohler, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025 For context, that is large enough to fit over 94,000 Milky Way galaxies placed side by side along the Great Wall's longest side, which stretches out for around 10% of the total width of the entire observable universe. Robert Lea, Space.com, 20 Apr. 2025 The difficulty of capturing observable behavior alongside actual subjective experience has meant that many theories remain speculative rather than evidential. Benjamin Voyer, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 Behavioral traits have a heritable component and are more readily observable than skeletal structure when assessing a dog's suitability for specific work. Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 5 Feb. 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 27 Apr. 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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