IPA

Dictionary definition of specter

A haunting or unsettling image, concept, or idea that elicits fear, anxiety, or unease.
"The specter of war cast a shadow over the diplomatic negotiations."

Detailed meaning of specter

It often implies a ghostly or supernatural presence that appears as a disturbing or threatening apparition. The term "specter" can also be used metaphorically to represent something that causes widespread apprehension, concern, or uncertainty, typically related to potential dangers, negative consequences, or looming problems. It carries a sense of looming or impending doom, conjuring up feelings of dread or foreboding. A specter can represent an intangible threat or a lingering fear that has the power to haunt and torment individuals or societies. It embodies the notion of an unsettling presence that hangs over a situation, casting a shadow of uncertainty and uneasiness.

Example sentences of specter

1. The abandoned mansion was rumored to be haunted by a spectral specter.
2. The specter of economic recession loomed over the country, causing widespread anxiety.
3. The politician used the specter of rising crime rates to rally public support for stricter laws.
4. The disease outbreak was a specter that haunted the town, leading to widespread panic.
5. The specter of unemployment kept many people awake at night, worrying about their future.
6. The failed experiment left behind a specter of doubt regarding the scientist's credibility.

History and etymology of specter

Specter,' as a noun, originates from the Latin word 'spectrum,' which meant 'apparition' or 'ghost.' Over time, this term evolved, and in English, it became 'specter.' A specter refers to a haunting or unsettling image, concept, or idea that elicits fear, anxiety, or unease. It often carries connotations of the supernatural, suggesting the presence of something eerie or otherworldly. In literature and folklore, specters are often associated with ghosts or phantoms, and they symbolize the lingering fears and uncertainties that can haunt the human psyche, making them a powerful and enduring symbol in storytelling and the human imagination.

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Further usage examples of specter

1. The specter of past failures haunted the team, but they were determined to overcome it.
2. The specter of poverty drove the young entrepreneur to work tirelessly to build a successful business.
3. The specter of betrayal hung heavily in the air, causing tension among the once-close friends.
4. The specter of a looming deadline forced the students to work diligently on their final projects.
5. The specter of failure loomed over her with every decision.
6. In the dimly lit room, a spectral figure materialized - a specter of the past.
7. The specter of economic downturn haunted the stock market.
8. He couldn't escape the specter of his traumatic childhood.
9. A shadowy specter danced at the edge of his consciousness.
10. The specter of war cast a long shadow on international relations.
11. The specter of disease spread fear throughout the community.
12. The specter of loneliness was his constant companion.
13. The specter of betrayal haunted their fragile trust.
14. In the old mansion, the specter of a ghostly presence was felt.
15. The specter of unemployment weighed heavily on his mind.
16. She couldn't shake the specter of regret from her past choices.
17. The specter of a looming deadline kept him awake at night.
18. The specter of an uncertain future hung over the town.
19. The specter of a haunted house drew thrill-seekers from afar.
20. The specter of inequality fueled social unrest.
21. The specter of a lost love haunted his dreams.
22. The specter of addiction had a firm grip on him.
23. The specter of a dark secret threatened to unravel their lives.