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

The spectacle underscored how far the fight had veered from policy substance into a broader clash of political cultures and personalities. —Nik Popli, Time, 1 Oct. 2025

The ultra-light 30-second flying tourbillon remains the focus at 6 o’clock, creating a stunning spectacle on the wrist. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2025

This year’s spectacle will occur on the night of Tuesday, October 7, when the moon appears bigger and brighter in the sky because of its timing and low horizon rise. —Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025

In an industry that often leans on spectacle, this approach proved that narrative depth can resonate just as strongly, if not more. —Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 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