observable

1 of 2

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl 

1

: noteworthy

the trend is observable all over the country

2

: capable of being observed : discernible

the size of the observable universe

observability

əb-ˌzər-və-ˈbi-lə-tē 

noun

observable noun

observably

əb-ˈzər-və-blē 

adverb

observability

2 of 2

noun

ob·​serv·​abil·​i·​ty əbˌzərvəˈbilətē 

-zə̄v-, 

-zəiv-, 

-lətē, 

-i

: capacity for or possibility of being observed

Synonyms of observable

Adjective

• visible
• visual
• noticeable

Examples of observable in a Sentence

Adjective

the size of the observable universe

scientists often work with phenomena that are not directly observable

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Its work covers the center fuselage, radar and communications systems, low-observable technology and operational support. — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 2 Oct. 2026

In 2026, hitherto unobservable communication within a body is now observable. — Literary Hub, 28 Sep. 2026

And unlike a solar eclipse, observable events probably take place near you multiple times each month. — David Schneider, IEEE Spectrum, 24 Sep. 2026

But engagement is only the observable edge of a broader blind spot. — Dr. Jay R. Harrison, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

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

Adjective

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for observable

• unobservable

Kids Definition

observable

adjective

ob·​serv·​able əb-ˈzər-və-bəl 

: able to be observed : noticeable

observably

-blē 

adverb