spectre
Also spelled specter (US spelling)
Spectre (noun) means a ghost or ghostly apparition; also, a looming threat or worry that haunts a situation. Example: “Visitors claim to have seen a spectre wandering the old castle halls.”
How to use spectre
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA ghost, or figuratively, a scary possibility that keeps hanging over people's minds.
"Spectre" is the standard British and Australian spelling; American English usually writes it "specter."
Word forms
spectres plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Visitors claim to have seen a _____ wandering the old castle halls.
Etymology
From French spectre, from Latin spectrum ("appearance, image"), from specere ("to look at") — the same root as "spectacle" and "inspect."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “spectre” mean?
The word “spectre” means a ghost or ghostly apparition; also, a looming threat or worry that haunts a situation. In plain terms, a ghost, or figuratively, a scary possibility that keeps hanging over people's minds.
How do you use “spectre” in a sentence?
Here is “spectre” used in a sentence: “Visitors claim to have seen a spectre wandering the old castle halls.”
What part of speech is “spectre”?
“Spectre” is a noun.
Where does the word “spectre” come from?
The word “spectre” comes from Latin. From French spectre, from Latin spectrum ("appearance, image"), from specere ("to look at") — the same root as "spectacle" and "inspect.".
Is “spectre” a common word?
“Spectre” is an uncommon word in modern English.