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spectacle

play
noun spec·ta·cle \ 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 spectacles plural :glasses
3 :something (such as natural markings on an animal) suggesting a pair of glasses

See spectacle defined for English-language learners

See spectacle defined for kids

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Examples of spectacle in a Sentence

  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

Recent Examples of spectacle from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spectacle.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of spectacle

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin spectaculum, from spectare to watch, frequentative of specere to look, look at — more at spy

spectacle Synonyms

Synonyms
circus, pageant, raree-show, extravaganza, spectacular
Related Words
display, exhibit, exhibition, exposition

Phrases Related to SPECTACLE

Related Phrases

SPECTACLE Defined for English Language Learners

spectacle

play
noun

Definition of spectacle for English Language Learners

  • : a very impressive show

  • : something that attracts attention because it is very unusual or very shocking

  • spectacles : a pair of lenses set into a frame and worn over the eyes

SPECTACLE Defined for Kids

spectacle

play
noun spec·ta·cle \ ˈspek-ti-kəl \

Definition of spectacle for Students

1 :an unusual or impressive public display (as a big parade)
2 spectacles plural :glass 3
3 :an object of curiosity or contempt
  • Don't make a spectacle of yourself!

Learn More about spectacle

  1. Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for spectacle Spanish Central: Translation of spectacle Nglish: Translation of spectacle for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of spectacle for Arabic speakers

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Examples: spectacle in a Sentence