spectacle

spectacle

[′spek·tə·kəl]

(zoology)

A colored marking in the form of rings around the eyes, as in certain birds, reptiles, and mammals (as the raccoon).

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

Spectacle

Speed (See SWIFTNESS.)

Aïda

opera renowned for its scenic grandeur; sometimes played with on-stage elephants. [Ital. Opera: Verdi Aïda in Benét, 16]

Barnum and Bailey circus

“greatest show on earth,” famed for outstanding displays. [Am. Culture: Collier’s, V, 110]

Birth of a Nation, The D. W.

Griffith’s monumental Civil War film. [Am. Cinema: Halliwell, 51]

Ziegfeld Follies

elaborate New York musical entertainment (1907–1931) with gorgeous settings and dancers. [Am. Theater: NCE, 3045]

Folies Bergère

opulent musical show in Paris featuring dancers, rich costumes and scenery. [Fr. Theater: EB (1972 ed.), IX, 515]

Allusions—Cultural, Literary, Biblical, and Historical: A Thematic Dictionary. Copyright 2008 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.