spectacle
noun
spec·ta·cle
ˈspek-ti-kəl 
also -ˌti-kəl
1
a
: something exhibited to view as unusual, notable, or entertaining
especially
: an eye-catching or dramatic public display
b
: an object of curiosity or contempt
made a spectacle of herself
2
spectacles
ˈspek-ti-kəlz
also -ˌti-kəlz
plural
: a device used to correct defects of vision : glasses
3
: something (such as natural markings on an animal) suggesting a pair of glasses
Examples of spectacle in a Sentence
He peered through his spectacles.
the multimedia spectacles that have become established parts of the opening and closing ceremonies for the Olympic Games
Recent Examples on the Web
Expect spectacle, but also a story about claiming identity and embracing power.
—
Okla Jones, Essence, 10 Sep. 2025
Where 2024 saw prolonged stretches without major releases – leading to the unusual phenomenon of classic film re-releases filling theater schedules – this year has demonstrated that audiences will turn out for quality content across genres, not just action spectacles.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 9 Sep. 2025
Lady Gaga's VMAs performance was pre-recorded Amid her global theatrical tour, the 39-year-old pop icon also gave VMAs viewers a peek at the haunting spectacle that is her Mayhem Ball concert.
—Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 8 Sep. 2025
Both involve a lethal contest put on for spectacle to exploit the poor.
—Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for spectacle
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Okla Jones, Essence, 10 Sep. 2025
Where 2024 saw prolonged stretches without major releases – leading to the unusual phenomenon of classic film re-releases filling theater schedules – this year has demonstrated that audiences will turn out for quality content across genres, not just action spectacles.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 9 Sep. 2025
Lady Gaga's VMAs performance was pre-recorded Amid her global theatrical tour, the 39-year-old pop icon also gave VMAs viewers a peek at the haunting spectacle that is her Mayhem Ball concert.
—Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 8 Sep. 2025
Both involve a lethal contest put on for spectacle to exploit the poor.
—Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for spectacle
Cite this Entry
“Spectacle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spectacle. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
spectacle
noun
spec·ta·cle
ˈspek-ti-kəl
1
a
: an unusual or impressive public display
b
: an object of curious or annoyed attention
made a spectacle of yourself at the party
2
plural
: glass entry 1 sense 2b
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