Spectacular
/spɛkˈtækjələr/noun
Impressively large, beautiful, dramatic, or extraordinary to see.
Did you know?The word descends from Latin public spectacles—large-scale shows designed to command collective attention, including theatrical performances and arena entertainments.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*spek-
“To look at, observe, or examine.”
Classical Latin
Latin
specere
“To look at or observe; the source of many English words connected with seeing.”
Classical Latin
Latin
spectaculum
“A public show, spectacle, or sight presented for people to watch.”
Late Latin
Latin
spectacularis
“Of or relating to a spectacle or public show.”
17th Century
English
spectacular
“Of the nature of a spectacle; visually impressive or striking.”
Modern English
English
spectacular
“Extraordinarily impressive, dramatic, or beautiful to behold.”