adj Uncommon

spectral

SPEHKT-ruh

Spectral (adj) means relating to ghosts or spirits; ghostly. Example: “A spectral figure seemed to hover at the end of the hallway.”

adj

Relating to ghosts or spirits; ghostly.

"A spectral figure seemed to hover at the end of the hallway."

Relating to a spectrum, especially of light or sound broken down by frequency or wavelength.

"Astronomers study the spectral lines of distant stars to work out what they are made of."

How to use spectral

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither "ghostly" or "to do with a spectrum" (of light, sound, etc.), depending on context.

Common pairings

spectral analysis a spectral glow spectral lines

Word forms

more spectral comparative, more spectral comparative, most spectral superlative, most spectral superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “spectral” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

A _____ figure seemed to hover at the end of the hallway.

Etymology

Built from "spectre/spectrum" plus the adjective ending "-al."

Frequently asked questions

What does “spectral” mean?

The word “spectral” means relating to ghosts or spirits; ghostly. In plain terms, either "ghostly" or "to do with a spectrum" (of light, sound, etc.), depending on context.

How do you pronounce “spectral”?

“Spectral” is pronounced SPEHKT-ruh (/ˈspɛktɹəɫ/ in IPA).

How do you use “spectral” in a sentence?

Here is “spectral” used in a sentence: “A spectral figure seemed to hover at the end of the hallway.”

What part of speech is “spectral”?

“Spectral” is an adjective.

Is “spectral” a common word?

“Spectral” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “spectral” have?

“Spectral” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to ghosts or spirits; ghostly.