specter

noun

spec·​ter ˈspek-tər How to pronounce specter (audio)
variants or spectre
Synonyms of specter
1
: a visible disembodied spirit : ghost
2
: something that haunts or perturbs the mind : phantasm
the specter of hunger

Synonyms of specter

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Examples of specter in a Sentence

feeling so terrified that every shadow became a specter
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Nothing else is working to banish the creepy specter of Jeffrey Epstein from his life. — Maureen Dowd, Mercury News, 18 June 2026 The specter of rising living costs could then play a pivotal role in major political decisions over the next year. — Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 17 June 2026 Shaky peace talks to formally end the Iran war means the specter of inflation also still remains, according to analysts. — Dj Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 2 July 2026 And the specter of Russian military aggression has spurred much talk of pouring money into defense instead. — Christine Ro, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for specter

Word History

Etymology

French spectre, from Latin spectrum appearance, specter, from specere to look, look at — more at spy

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of specter was in 1605

Phrases Containing specter

Rhymes for specter

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Browse Nearby Words

spectatress
specter
specter bat
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Cite this Entry

“Specter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specter. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

specter

noun
spec·​ter
variants or spectre
ˈspek-tər How to pronounce specter (audio)
1
: ghost
2
: something that bothers the mind

More from Merriam-Webster on specter

Nglish: Translation of specter for Spanish Speakers

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