Word
spectre
Phoneticsspec·tre, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɛktɝ/
UK/spˈɛktɐ/
US spelling · specter
Countable noun
Definition
n. the idea of something unpleasant or scary that might happen in the future. It can also mean a ghost or a spirit.
n. a haunting or disturbing image of a future possibility, typically something unpleasant or dangerous; also refers to a ghost or phantom.
Examples
“The spectre of war hung over the region.”
“Economists warned that the spectre of inflation could derail the country's fragile recovery.”
“Even as the treaty was signed, the spectre of past betrayals loomed large in the minds of the negotiators, preventing any real sense of trust from forming.”
Examples
simple
“The spectre of war hung over the region.”
contextual
“Economists warned that the spectre of inflation could derail the country's fragile recovery.”
complex
“Even as the treaty was signed, the spectre of past betrayals loomed large in the minds of the negotiators, preventing any real sense of trust from forming.”
Usage
Often used metaphorically with 'of' to describe a persistent fear or threat.
Real-World Examples
“The spectre of malnutrition is back and must be tackled — fast.” “A spectre is haunting the West – the spectre of authoritarian capitalism.” “An eventual departure is expected, but Monaco should at least try to live in the present – as much as the spectre of financial obligations looms.” “The New England winter was scarier than any of the film’s spectres, Irvin recalled.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Idioms
In Music
Cover shown under fair use for identification and commentary.
Spectre · 2015
- Artist:
- Radiohead
Radiohead released this haunting track in 2015, originally intended for the James Bond film of the same name. The title uses the word figuratively to describe a lingering, ominous threat rather than a literal ghost.
- 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.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL 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: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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