spectre

British  

/ ˈspɛktə /

noun

1. a ghost; phantom; apparition

2. a mental image of something unpleasant or menacing

   the spectre of redundancy

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Etymology

Origin of spectre

C17: from Latin spectrum, from specere to look at

Explanation

A spectre is a ghost or spirit. If you see a spectre of the previous owners in your new house, get out quick! A spectre can also be a thought that haunts you. The word spectre (or specter) has to do with being haunted — it can be something that literally haunts you, like the ghost of your Aunt Sally who bangs the windows every night. You can also say that a reminder of something painful is a spectre. A spectre can also be a fear of something dreadful happening in the future, like the spectre of a second ice age. Spectre is generally the British spelling, while Americans prefer specter.

Example Sentences

The move comes as the Iran war has sent aviation fuel prices soaring and raised the spectre of shortages during Europe's peak travel season.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

Attacks on oil infrastructure in the Gulf region and soaring oil prices are raising the spectre of a new oil crisis, although economists say we’re not quite there just yet.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

On the day we met, as we strolled along Santa Monica pier in the sunshine, the spectre of war still loomed over him.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

This development has raised the spectre of disruptions to Iran’s oil supply, ANZ Research analysts say in a research report.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

“Do not ask me,” cried I, putting my hands before my eyes, for I thought I saw the dreaded spectre glide into the room; “he can tell. Oh, save me! Save me!”

From "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley