spectacular

1 of 2

adjective

spec·​tac·​u·​lar spek-ˈta-kyə-lər 

spək-

: of, relating to, or being a spectacle : striking, sensational

a spectacular display of fireworks

spectacularly adverb

spectacular

2 of 2

noun

: something that is spectacular

especially : an elaborate film, television, or theatrical production

Synonyms of spectacular

Noun

• exhibit
• pageant
• display
• exhibition
• spectacle
• extravaganza

Examples of spectacular in a Sentence

Adjective

a spectacular play in a football game

The autumn foliage was spectacular.

Noun

the larger-than-life spectaculars that make Las Vegas attractive to people with little interest in gambling

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

His adjustments to off-target throws as a long receiver can be spectacular. — Nick Baumgardner, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026

Travelers ride between remote estancias in Patagonia to learn about ranching culture while crossing some of South America's most spectacular mountain landscapes. — Brianna Randall, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Noun

Those who visit annually or several times during the year are deeply passionate about the live shows, character meet-and-greets, holiday food specials, seasonal festivals and parades and nighttime spectaculars that these parks provide. — Sarah Whitten, CNBC, 17 Aug. 2026

Sure, the city has fantastic architecture, world-class restaurants, Broadway spectaculars, and those oh-so-gorgeous hotels. — Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin spectaculum

First Known Use

Adjective

1682, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1873, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for spectacular

• vernacular
• macular
• saccular
• unspectacular

Kids Definition

spectacular

adjective

spec·​tac·​u·​lar

spek-ˈtak-yə-lər, 

spək-

: of, relating to, or being a spectacle : exciting to see : sensational

a spectacular sunset

spectacularly adverb