/euhb zerr"veuh tawr'ee, -tohr'ee/ , n. , pl. observatories .
1. a place or building equipped and used for making observations of astronomical, meteorological, or other natural phenomena, esp. a place equipped with a powerful telescope for observing the planets and stars.
2. an institution that controls or carries on the work of such a place.
3. a place or structure that provides an extensive view; lookout.
[ 1670-80; observa ( re ) to OBSERVE + -TORY 2 ]