Definition of SPECTACLE

spectacle

Plural: spectacles

Noun

  • something or someone seen (especially a notable or unusual sight)
    • "the tragic spectacle of cripples trying to escape"
  • an elaborate and remarkable display on a lavish scale
  • a blunder that makes you look ridiculous; used in the phrase `make a spectacle of' yourself
  • An exciting or extraordinary scene, exhibition, performance etc.
  • An embarrassing or unedifying scene or situation.
  • Attributive form of spectacles.
  • The brille of a snake.
  • A frame with different coloured lenses on a semaphore signal through which light from a lamp shines at night, often a part of the signal arm.

Examples

  • He made a spectacle out of himself.
  • The horse race was a thrilling spectacle.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English spectacle, from Middle French spectacle, from Latin spectāculum (“a show, spectacle”), from spectō (“to see, behold”), frequentative of speciō (“to see”). See species. Doublet of spectaculum.

Scrabble Score: 15

spectacle: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
spectacle: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
spectacle: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 19

spectacle: valid Words With Friends Word