English Reference
adjective · noun

spectacular

adj. · n.
US /spɛkˈtækjəɫɝ/ UK /spɛktˈækjʊlɐ/ spec·tac·u·lar UK spelling spectaculars

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    adj.very exciting to look at or extremely impressive.

    adj.strikingly grand, impressive, or dramatic in appearance or manner.

    Simple

    The view from the top of the mountain was absolutely spectacular.

    In context

    The sunset provided a spectacular backdrop for the outdoor wedding, with deep purples and oranges reflecting off the calm lake.

    ordinaryunimpressivedull
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.used to describe a result that is much better or worse than usual.

    adj.characterised by a dramatic or extreme degree of success or failure.

    Simple

    The new product was a spectacular success and sold out in hours.

    In context

    Despite the heavy investment, the project ended in a spectacular failure that forced the company to restructure its entire research department.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    n.a very large and impressive public show or performance.

    n.a lavishly produced performance or display, often involving many performers or complex visual effects.

    Simple

    The city put on a Christmas spectacular with lights and music.

    In context

    The television network's annual musical spectacular attracted millions of viewers, featuring elaborate choreography and high-budget pyrotechnics.

Guler can be spectacular, breaking past opponents on the dribble, sparking the attack.

Al Jazeera· 15 Aug 2026

Millions of people in Europe stepped outside Wednesday to watch a spectacular sunset with a solar eclipse.

NPR· 13 Aug 2026

From Latin spectaculum (“a sight, show”) + -ar.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated