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

During major geopolitical crises, the spectre of a new oil shock resurfaced, with the price per barrel incorporating a "geopolitical risk premium," to reflect the probability that a conflict will cause a drop in supply.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 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

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

Growth in India's IT back offices is slowing, stocks are underperforming, hiring has shrunk and wages have stagnated as the spectre of a new disruptor looms large.

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2025

“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