Spectral: meaning, definitions and examples

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spectral

[ˈspɛktrəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

analysis

Relating to or produced by a spectrum. Of, relating to, or produced by a spectrum of colors or light. Relating to or existing as a spectrum. Of, relating to, or produced by a spectrum of frequencies.

Synonyms

colorful, multicolored, variegated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spectral	Usually used to describe something that looks ghostly or eerie, often resembling a specter or ghost. The old house had a spectral light coming from the attic. His face took on a spectral pallor under the moonlight.
colorful	Best used to describe something full of bright colors or lively and exciting aspects. The parade was incredibly colorful, with floats and dancers in bright costumes. She has a very colorful personality, always full of energy and stories.
variegated	Often used to describe something that has different colors arranged in patterns or patches; also used in botany to describe leaves with different colors. The garden was full of variegated plants, adding texture and interest. Her dress was variegated, with patches of red, blue, and green.
multicolored	Refers to something that has multiple colors in it, often in a more straightforward, descriptive manner. The multicolored scarf brightened up her winter coat. A multicolored mural covered the entire wall, making the alleyway look cheerful.

Examples of usage

The spectral analysis of the star's light revealed new information about its composition.
The artist used a spectral color palette for the painting, creating a vibrant and dynamic effect.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

ghostly

Of or like a ghost. Suggestive of what is ghostly; elusive; shadowy. Eerie; unearthly.

Synonyms

apparitional, ghostly, phantom.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spectral	Use 'spectral' to describe something haunting, eerie, or ghost-like often in a scientific or poetic context. It's suitable for describing things that resemble or are related to ghosts but in a more abstract or less tangible way. The moon cast a spectral light over the desolate landscape. She saw a spectral figure in the old photograph.
ghostly	Use 'ghostly' to describe something that resembles or is characteristic of a ghost. This term can be used in everyday language and carries a spooky or eerie connotation. A ghostly whisper echoed through the empty corridors. They saw a ghostly figure in the abandoned house.
phantom	Use 'phantom' to describe a ghost or something that seems real but isn't. This term can be used both in supernatural and metaphorical contexts. It often carries a mysterious or elusive connotation. He chased a phantom through the fog, only to find himself alone. The phantom pain in his leg persisted long after the injury had healed.
apparitional	Use 'apparitional' when referring to something similar to an apparition or ghost, emphasizing the sudden or mysterious appearance of the entity. This term is often used in literary or descriptive contexts. The apparitional form appeared at the top of the staircase, startling everyone. There was an apparitional figure looming in the doorway.

Examples of usage

The spectral figure seemed to glide through the old mansion, sending shivers down the spine of the witnesses.
The forest had a spectral quality at night, with strange sounds and flickering lights.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin word 'spectrum', meaning 'image' or 'appearance', which is linked to how light creates images.
In the 16th century, the term began to refer specifically to ghosts or apparitions, connecting it to the supernatural.
The evolution of 'spectral' shows how language shifts meanings over time, from light to the mystical.

Science

In physics, 'spectral' refers to the different wavelengths of light, which can produce visible and invisible colors.
Spectral analysis is a technique used in chemistry to identify substances by examining their light spectrum.
Spectral lines in gases are used to understand the composition of stars and distant celestial bodies.

Literature

In literature, spectral imagery often evokes feelings of nostalgia or loss, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.
Famous works like 'A Christmas Carol' feature spectral visitors, illustrating how ghosts convey messages of morality.
Modern authors use spectral themes to explore psychological states and the influence of the past on the present.

Pop Culture

Ghosts and spectral entities frequently appear in movies and TV shows, often symbolizing unresolved issues or fears.
The 'Spectral' category in gaming often includes characters who can fade in and out, emphasizing stealth or mystery.
Festivals like Halloween celebrate spectral themes, inviting exploration of the supernatural and unknown.

Psychology

In psychological terms, the concept of spectral can relate to how memories can haunt individuals, much like a ghost.
Phantom limb phenomena highlight how the brain can perceive sensations from limbs that are no longer there, creating a spectral experience.
Some studies suggest that fear of the spectral is rooted in our primal instinct to survive, reacting to signals of danger.

Translations

Translations of the word "spectral" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espectral

🇮🇳 स्पेक्ट्रल

🇩🇪 spektral

🇮🇩 spektral

🇺🇦 спектральний

🇵🇱 spektroskopowy

🇯🇵 スペクトルの (supekutoru no)

🇫🇷 spectral

🇪🇸 espectral

🇹🇷 spektrel

🇰🇷 스펙트럼의 (supekteureom-ui)

🇸🇦 طيفي (tayfi)

🇨🇿 spektroskopický

🇸🇰 spektroskopický

🇨🇳 光谱的 (guāngpǔ de)

🇸🇮 spektroskopski

🇮🇸 spektroskopískur

🇰🇿 спектрлік

🇬🇪 სპექტრული (spektruli)

🇦🇿 spektral

🇲🇽 espectral

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,604 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5601 originated
5602 treaties
5603 unhappy
5604 spectral
5605 analogy
5606 allegations
5607 alongside
...