spectacular

1 of 2

adjective

spec·​tac·​u·​lar spek-ˈta-kyə-lər How to pronounce spectacular (audio)
spək-
: of, relating to, or being a spectacle : striking, sensational
a spectacular display of fireworks
spectacularly adverb

spectacular

2 of 2

noun

: something that is spectacular
especially : an elaborate film, television, or theatrical production

Examples of spectacular in a Sentence

Adjective a spectacular play in a football game The autumn foliage was spectacular. Noun the larger-than-life spectaculars that make Las Vegas attractive to people with little interest in gambling
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Stunning sunset views, wild horses galloping through the salty spray, and majestic sand dunes rising into the clear blue sky—every scene is more spectacular than the last. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2025 The 30-year-old defensive end has been solid, if not spectacular. Phil Rogers, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025
Noun
Fox has sought anywhere from over $7 million to more than $8 million for a 30-second spot in the 2025 spectacular. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 6 Feb. 2025 Universal has not yet announced if the two new nighttime spectaculars will stick around after Fan Fest Nights, return each spring during the seasonal fandom event or serve as a one-time only offering. Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register, 30 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spectacular

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin spectaculum

First Known Use

Adjective

1682, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1873, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spectacular was in 1682

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Cite this Entry

“Spectacular.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spectacular. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

spectacular

adjective
spec·​tac·​u·​lar
spek-ˈtak-yə-lər,
spək-
: of, relating to, or being a spectacle : exciting to see : sensational
a spectacular sunset
spectacularly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on spectacular

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