# spectacle

/ˈspɛktəkəɫ/ (US) · /spˈɛktəkəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spectacle
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. impressive display

noun · CEFR B2

a grand, impressive, or exciting event that is amazing to watch.

For teachers: a visually striking performance, exhibition, or event that commands public attention.

- The opening ceremony of the Olympic Games was a magnificent spectacle of light and music.
- The volcanic eruption, while devastating to local infrastructure, provided a terrifyingly beautiful spectacle for the geologists observing from the ridge.

### 2. embarrassing scene

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a situation where someone behaves badly in public and makes people feel uncomfortable.

For teachers: an unedifying or embarrassing public display that attracts negative attention.

- He made a spectacle of himself by shouting at the waiter in the middle of the quiet restaurant.
- The politician made a spectacle of himself during the debate, losing his temper and alienating his core supporters with an unprovoked outburst.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'make a spectacle of oneself'.

### 3. eyewear

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal · British English

a formal word for a pair of glasses.

For teachers: an alternative term for eyeglasses; frequently used in the plural form 'spectacles' or as an attributive noun.

- The old man adjusted his spectacles to read the small print on the bottle.
- The museum displayed a collection of nineteenth-century spectacle frames, showcasing the evolution of optical craftsmanship over the decades.

Usage: Usually used in the plural form 'spectacles'.

## Examples

- The fireworks display was a magnificent spectacle.
- The opening ceremony of the Olympic Games is always a grand spectacle that celebrates the host nation's culture.
- The political rally was less a debate of ideas and more a carefully choreographed spectacle designed to dominate the evening news cycle through sheer visual scale.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.