spectacle

spec·ta·cle

noun \ˈspek-ti-kəl also -ˌti-kəl\

Definition of SPECTACLE

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

plural : glasses

3

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

Examples of SPECTACLE

1. He peered through his spectacles.
2. <the multimedia spectacles that have become established parts of the opening and closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games>

Origin of SPECTACLE

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

Related to SPECTACLE

Synonyms: circus, pageant, raree-show, extravaganza, spectacular

Related Words: display, exhibit, exhibition, exposition

see all synonyms and antonyms

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