Word
spectacles
Phoneticsspec·ta·cles, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɛktəkəɫz/
UK/spˈɛktəkəlz/
Plural noun
Definition
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.
Examples
“He adjusted his spectacles before reading the letter.”
“The professor peered over the top of his gold-rimmed spectacles to address the student at the back of the room.”
“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.”
Examples
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.
Real-World Examples
“These spectacles produce a strong signal that encourages myopia in one eye, while the other eye provides a comparison.” “So here are three things you can do with those retina-saving spectacles.” Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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