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

Topline New York City’s last Manhattanhenge sunsets of the year are just days away, giving skywatchers and photographers another chance to see one of the world’s most spectacular urban astronomy events. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Selena Gomez kicked off the holiday weekend with not one, but two spectacular style moments. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 5 July 2026

Noun

Viewing instructions for Epic Universe theme park’s new nighttime spectacular could well be to look up, down and all around. — Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2026

The patriotic spectaculars are part of the team’s celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. — Sophia Buonpane, Kansas City Star, 3 July 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