spectacles

Meanings

1. 1nounpluralformalold-fashioned

   A pair of lenses in a frame worn over the eyes to correct or improve vision.

   Grammar: Always plural; takes a plural verb: 'The spectacles are on the table.' Not used in the singular for this meaning.

   Patterns

   • a pair of spectacles
   • wear spectacles
   • look through spectacles

   The old professor wore round spectacles.

   She cleaned her spectacles with a soft cloth.

   He peered at the document through his spectacles.

2. 2nouncountable

   Impressive public displays or events that attract attention as entertainment.

   Grammar: Countable; the singular is 'spectacle'. Often used in the plural to mean a series of such events.

   Patterns

   • a spectacle
   • spectacles of something
   • make a spectacle of oneself

   The fireworks were a magnificent spectacle.

   The city hosts musical spectacles every summer.

   He made a spectacle of himself by shouting in the restaurant.

Word forms

Common combinations

a pair of spectacles

He always carries a pair of spectacles in his pocket.

wear spectacles

In the past, few children wore spectacles.

a magnificent spectacle

The parade was a magnificent spectacle.

make a spectacle of oneself

She didn't want to make a spectacle of herself at the party.

Synonyms and how they differ

glasses

The common everyday word; 'spectacles' is formal and sounds old-fashioned.

eyeglasses

The standard American term; 'spectacles' is more literary or British.

specs

Informal; 'spectacles' is the formal equivalent.

display

For the second sense, a public show; 'spectacle' emphasizes grandeur and visual impact.

Word family

spectacle noun

Singular form, meaning a public show or sight.

spectacular adjective

Impressive or dramatic; e.g., 'a spectacular view'.

Commonly confused: spectacles or specs?

Practice

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