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

• circus
• extravaganza
• pageant
• raree-show
• spectacular

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

But not every serpent spectacle comes with a picnic table and a selfie spot. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025

One of the most famous of the walkers was Edward Payton Weston, whose many ultra-walks touted a mix of sensationalism, spectacle, manliness, and health. —The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 26 Mar. 2025

The awe-inspiring spectacle is a rarity – and will become even more so in the years ahead. —Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2025

Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek's network of contributors Las Vegas, a city known for its mirages and extravagant spectacles, played host to a different kind of oasis this past weekend — one coinciding with William Shatner's 94th birthday and World Water Day. —Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 25 Mar. 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