# astronomer

/əˈstɹɑnəmɝ/ (US) · /ɐstɹˈɒnəmɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/astronomer
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a scientist who studies the stars, planets, and other objects in space. They often use telescopes to watch how things move in the sky.

For teachers: a scientist who observes and studies celestial bodies and phenomena. Refers to professionals or serious amateurs engaged in the physical study of the universe beyond Earth.

## Examples

- The astronomer looks at the stars through a large telescope.
- After years of observation, the astronomer discovered a new planet orbiting a distant star in our galaxy.
- While early astronomers relied on simple visual observations, modern researchers use sophisticated satellite data and radio telescopes to map the furthest reaches of the observable universe.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The astronomer told me I am a Leo." but "The astrologer told me I am a Leo." — Learners often confuse 'astronomer' (a scientist) with 'astrologer' (someone who uses stars to predict the future).

## Usage notes

- Often paired with 'amateur' or 'professional' to distinguish between hobbyists and career scientists.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.