/ ˈspektəkl; NAmE / noun
1.
spectacles [ pl. ] ( formal ) = glasses :
a pair of spectacles
a spectacle case (= to put your glasses in)
2.
[ C , U ] a performance or an event that is very impressive and exciting to look at :
The carnival parade was a magnificent spectacle.
3.
[ C ] a sight or view that is very impressive to look at :
The sunset was a stunning spectacle.
➡ note at view
4.
[ sing. ] an unusual or surprising sight or situation that attracts a lot of attention :
I remember the sad spectacle of her standing in her wedding dress, covered in mud.
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IDIOMS
- make a spectacle of yourself
••
WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : via Old French from Latin spectaculum public show, from spectare , frequentative of specere to look.