spectacles

British  

/ ˈspɛktəkəlz /

plural noun

1. Often (informal) shortened to: specs.  a pair of glasses for correcting defective vision

2. cricket a score of 0 in each innings of a match

---

Explanation

Spectacles are eyeglasses. People wear spectacles because their vision is flawed. Spectacles is an old-fashioned word, but it means something you probably see — and maybe even use — every day: eyeglasses. People who have defective vision need spectacles to see properly. Spectacles have two main parts: the lenses and the frames that hold the lenses. An ophthalmologist (eye doctor) can test your eyes and see if you need spectacles. You can also call spectacles glasses or specs.

Example Sentences

In his maroon robes, simple sandals and wide-rimmed spectacles, the Dalai Lama is an unlikely global celebrity.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

Think physical comedy like Charlie Chaplin, visual spectacles like “The Wizard of Oz” and sweeping romances like “Casablanca.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

An old-fashioned girl, she plays LPs on a Victrola and wears spectacles to read.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2026

And while viewers will definitely be talking about those classic spectacles, I can already foresee the chatter for less-typical candidates lasting longer and being far more impactful.

From Salon • Jan. 6, 2026

He tried straightening his spectacles once more before pulling them off in frustration and shoving them into his shirt pocket.

From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat