# spectra

/ˈspɛktɹə/ (US) · /spˈɛktɹɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spectra
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the plural form of spectrum. It refers to a wide range of different ideas, colors, or qualities that are related to each other.

For teachers: the plural of 'spectrum'; refers to the distributions of light, sound, or other physical phenomena by frequency or wavelength. In a broader sense, it describes wide ranges of related ideas, qualities, or activities.

## Examples

- Scientists study the light spectra of distant stars.
- The researchers compared the absorption spectra of various chemical compounds to identify the unknown substance.
- By analyzing the emission spectra of these gases, astronomers can determine the chemical composition and temperature of nebulae located thousands of light-years away.

## Pitfalls

- Not "This spectra shows a high peak" but "These spectra show a high peak" — Spectra is the plural form; it requires a plural demonstrative and verb agreement.

## Usage notes

- The plural form of 'spectrum'; takes a plural verb. In non-scientific contexts, 'spectrums' is sometimes used, but 'spectra' remains the standard in academic and technical writing.

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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.