spectacle
SPEK-tuh-kuhl
/ˈspektəkl/
A visually striking performance or display; an event that is memorable for its scale or impact.
Often implies something grand, theatrical, and designed to be watched by a large crowd.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'spectare,' meaning 'to watch' or 'to look at.' This is the same root that gives us 'spectator' (one who watches) and 'inspect' (to look into). A spectacle is something that demands to be watched.
Word relationships
- extravaganza: Extravaganza implies excessive luxury or elaborate production; spectacle focuses on the visual impact.
- display: Display is a more neutral term; spectacle implies something much larger and more impressive.
Commonly confused with
- spectacles: In the plural, 'spectacles' is an old-fashioned word for eyeglasses.
Word family
- spectacular (adjective): beautiful in a dramatic and eye-catching way
Collocations
- grand spectacle
- public spectacle
- make a spectacle of
- visual spectacle
Idioms & expressions
- make a spectacle of oneself
Example sentences
- "The Olympic opening ceremony was a grand spectacle of light and sound." Opening ceremony.
- "Society has become a spectacle, where the image is more important than the reality." Real citation on the nature of events.
Memory hook
A 'spectacle' is something you need your 'spectacles' (glasses) to see clearly because it's so grand. Spec = See.
When not to use
Don't use it for a small, private event unless you are being ironic.
Fun facts
- The ancient Roman Colosseum was the ultimate venue for the 'spectacles' of the ancient world.
Explore more words
conspicuous, behold, spectator, breathtaking, astonish, specimen
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