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

Outside, the spectacle continues. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 21 Oct. 2025

The book arrives roughly a month after the release of the 2026 Coachella lineup, with Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber and Karol G set to headline next year’s spectacle. —Billboard Staff, Billboard, 21 Oct. 2025

Leading up to the Great American Eclipse, these safety spectacles became a bit hard to find, so buy them and more eclipse gear and merch early. —Maya Silver, Outside, 21 Oct. 2025

The Orionid meteor shower, which peaks in mid-October annually, is set to reach its maximum activity soon — offering skywatchers a dazzling celestial spectacle, as the fast-moving meteors occasionally become fireballs, appearing brighter than any of the stars or planets in the night sky. —Diana Leyva, Nashville Tennessean, 20 Oct. 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