Meaning of the word spectre in English

What does spectre mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

spectre

US /ˈspek.tɚ/
UK /ˈspek.tər/

Noun

1.

a ghost or phantom

Example:
The old house was rumored to be haunted by a ghostly spectre.
A pale spectre appeared in the doorway, causing everyone to gasp.
2.

something widely feared as a possible unpleasant or dangerous occurrence

Example:
The spectre of war loomed over the continent.
The company faced the spectre of bankruptcy after the economic downturn.