Synonyms of spectacle

spectacle

noun

ˈspek-ti-kəl 

1

as in pageant

an elaborate, visually exciting show or event

the multimedia spectacles that have become established parts of the opening and closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pageant
• exhibit
• exhibition
• spectacular
• display
• extravaganza
• circus
• raree-show
• exposition

2

as in glass

spectacles plural a pair of lenses set in a frame that is held in place with ear supports and which are usually worn to correct vision

bought a pair of spectacles with nonprescription lenses simply to look more intelligent

Synonyms & Similar Words

• glass
• sunglasses
• eyeglasses
• specs
• goggles
• lorgnette
• monocle
• bifocals
• half-glasses
• contact lens
• trifocals
• pince-nez

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of spectacle

Images taken from inside the Orion capsule have shifted from solely highlighting the glowing spectacle of Earth as seen from a cosmic perspective to refocusing on the moon as the mission draws closer to the silvery orb. —Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2026

For Young, the projects are intertwined, with his past and future colliding in a swirl of acrylic shells, nostalgia, and high-definition spectacle. —Jeff Miller, Rolling Stone, 3 Apr. 2026

Tourists are drawn to the spectacle from other parts of Spain and abroad. —Alexis Marshall, NPR, 3 Apr. 2026

Like the Battle of the Alamo for Texans, this bloody spectacle is for regime-loyal Shia the defeat that outshines in glory any possible subsequent victory. —Graeme Wood, The Atlantic, 3 Apr. 2026