The word "spectacles" is a noun that refers to eyeglasses. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈspɛktəkəlz/. The first syllable starts with the "s" sound, followed by the "p" sound, and then the "e" sound which is pronounced as "ɛ". The second syllable starts with the "t" sound followed by the "a" sound pronounced as "ə". The third syllable starts with the "k" sound and ends with the "əlz" sound which is pronounced as "əlz". The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky, but with practice, it can be easy to remember.
Spectacles, most commonly referred to as glasses, are a pair of lenses held in frames worn on the face to enhance vision and correct refractive errors. These optical devices are primarily used by individuals with nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia to assist their eyes in focusing light onto the retina properly. Spectacles consist of two lenses that are mounted in frames, designed to sit comfortably on the nose and ears.
The lenses of spectacles are commonly made from glass or plastic and are crafted to specific prescriptions, customized to suit each wearer's particular eye needs. They are classified into various categories, such as single vision lenses for individuals with one refractive error, bifocal lenses for those who require both near and distant vision correction, and progressive lenses that offer a smooth transition between different focal lengths. Spectacle frames come in diverse styles, materials, and colors, according to personal preferences and fashion trends.
Beyond their functional purpose, spectacles have become a fashion accessory, allowing individuals to express their personal style and enhance their appearance. They have evolved over time to accommodate different face shapes, provide improved comfort, and incorporate advanced features like anti-reflective coatings and UV protection. Spectacles have significantly contributed to the improvement of quality of life for millions by enabling clearer vision, reducing eye strain, and enhancing overall visual acuity.
Lenses set in a frame which holds them in front of the eyes, used to correct errors of vision or to protect the eyes from the glare of the sun or electric light. The parts of the spectacles are the lenses; the bridge between the lenses, resting on the nose; the rims or frames, encircling the lenses, now often omitted, the bridge and the shoulders being riveted directly to the lenses; the sides or temples, wires passing on either side of the head to the ears; the bows, the curved extremities of the sides over the roots of the auricles; the shoulders, short bars attached to the rims or riveted to the lenses and jointed with the sides.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Glasses mounted on a light frame to assist or correct vision.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "spectacles" originated from the Latin word "spectaculum", which means "a public show". In ancient Rome, "spectacles" referred to shows or performances held in amphitheaters, theaters, or arenas. Over time, the term began to be associated with the special eyeglasses used to improve vision. The transition occurred because wearing eyeglasses allowed people to see more clearly, as if they were watching a spectacle. Hence, the word "spectacles" came to refer to corrective lenses for vision.