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

From Beyoncé to Taylor Swift — whose big-budget tour spectacles received theatrical releases — to Lady Gaga and Billie Eilish’s more modest streaming affairs, tour documentaries and concert films have become modern mainstays.

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

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

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

And they’re bigger spectacles now with special guests, interactive elements, large venues and merch -- a.k.a. the Eras tour of podcasting.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 7, 2026

Dark and clear nights are the optimum viewing conditions so let's hope that 2026 gifts us with more spectacles in the night sky.

From BBC • Jan. 3, 2026

“Morris must go to his room to rest,” Francesca said, adjusting her fake spectacles.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon