English Reference
Noun

spectacles

n. plural-only
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈspɛktəkəɫz/ UK /spˈɛktəkəlz/ spec·ta·cles

n.a pair of glasses that you wear to see better. This is a more formal or old-fashioned word for eyewear.

n.a pair of corrective lenses in a frame that rests on the nose and ears to aid vision.


SIMPLE

He adjusted his spectacles before reading the letter.

CONTEXTUAL

The professor peered over the top of his gold-rimmed spectacles to address the student at the back of the room.

COMPLEX

While modern contact lenses offer convenience, many people still prefer the classic aesthetic of spectacles, viewing them as a fashion accessory rather than a medical necessity.

Usage

Takes plural verb agreement; often used with the classifier 'a pair of'.

Pitfall
He is wearing a spectacle.He is wearing spectacles.

The word is plural-only when referring to eyewear; a 'spectacle' refers to a grand public display or scene.

These spectacles produce a strong signal that encourages myopia in one eye, while the other eye provides a comparison.

ScienceDaily· 26 Aug 2026

So here are three things you can do with those retina-saving spectacles.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated