spectacle

noun

spec·​ta·​cle ˈspek-ti-kəl How to pronounce spectacle (audio)
 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 How to pronounce spectacle (audio)
 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

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
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.
The house’s spectacle in Grand Palais and fashion show is rooted in technological, futuristic and artisanal imaginations, while experiencing a dichotomy with the reinvention of clothing, which carries a sensitive memory of the past — projecting a constellation of colors, codes and values. Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2025 The spectacle drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who accused the president of being out of touch with Argentina’s mounting economic hardships. Gonzalo Zegarra, CNN Money, 7 Oct. 2025 The sequence is pure spectacle, but amidst the heavy-handed metaphor, there's a timely commentary about the risks of relying on this type of technology at all. Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 7 Oct. 2025 By parodying the spectacle that once defined him, James cleverly reclaims the narrative, turning an infamous moment into a savvy branding opportunity. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spectacle

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of spectacle was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Spectacle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spectacle. Accessed 11 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

spectacle

noun
spec·​ta·​cle ˈspek-ti-kəl How to pronounce spectacle (audio)
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
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

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