spectacle

noun

spec·​ta·​cle ˈspek-ti-kəl 

 also  -ˌti-kəl

1

a

: something exhibited to view as unusual, notable, or entertaining

especially : an eye-catching or dramatic public display

b

: an object of curiosity or contempt

made a spectacle of herself

2

spectacles ˈspek-ti-kəlz 

 also  -ˌti-kəlz

plural : a device used to correct defects of vision : glasses

3

: something (such as natural markings on an animal) suggesting a pair of glasses

Synonyms

• pageant
• exhibit
• exhibition
• spectacular
• display
• extravaganza

Examples of spectacle in a Sentence

He peered through his spectacles.

the multimedia spectacles that have become established parts of the opening and closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games

Recent Examples on the Web

The parade ended with the release of 80,000 doves and an equal number of balloons in a visual spectacle symbolizing peace. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2025

His star power guarantees mainstream attention, and having him on the first ESPN event sends a message to partners and fans alike that WWE is still built around spectacle. —Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025

House Oversight Committee members plan to meet with the victims on Tuesday, a day before the news conference is sure to create a spectacle on Capitol Hill. —Lauren Peller, ABC News, 2 Sep. 2025

The only thing more exciting than witnessing this cosmic spectacle is snapping a photo to prove it! —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin spectaculum, from spectare to watch, frequentative of specere to look, look at — more at spy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing spectacle

• make a spectacle of oneself

Rhymes for spectacle

• dialectical

Kids Definition

spectacle

noun

spec·​ta·​cle ˈspek-ti-kəl 

1

a

: an unusual or impressive public display

b

: an object of curious or annoyed attention

made a spectacle of yourself at the party

2

plural : glass entry 1 sense 2b

Etymology

Middle English spectacle "spectacle," from early French spectacle (same meaning), from Latin spectaculum (same meaning), from spectare "to watch," from specere "to look, look at" — related to auspice, expect