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spectacle

spec·ta·cle [ spéktək'l ]


noun  (plural spec·ta·cles)
Definition:
 
1. something remarkable that can be seen: an object, phenomenon, or event that is witnessed, especially one that is impressive, unusual, or disturbing

2. lavish display: an impressive performance or display, especially something staged as a form of entertainment

3. unpleasant center of attention: somebody or something that attracts attention by being unpleasant or ridiculous
You are making a spectacle of yourself.



plural noun spec·ta·cles 
Definition:
 
eyeglasses: a pair of glass or plastic lenses worn in a frame in front of the eyes to help correct imperfect vision

[14th century. Via French< Latin spectaculum< spectare "to watch" < specere "look at"]

Word History

The Latin word specere "to look at" and its stem spect-, from which spectacle is derived, are also the source of English aspect, circumspect, conspectus, conspicuous, despise, expect, inspect, perspective, prospect, respect, specimen, specter, spectrum, and suspect.

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