spectacle Hear it!

spectacle definition

spec·ta·cle (spek′tə kəl)

noun

  1. something to look at, esp. some strange or remarkable sight; unusual display
  2. a public show or exhibition on a grand scale
  3. Old-fashioned a pair of eyeglasses
  4. something like a pair of eyeglasses in shape, use, etc.

Etymology: OFr < L spectaculum < spectare, to behold, freq. of specere, to see: see spy

spectacle Idioms

make a spectacle of oneself

to behave foolishly or improperly in public

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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