spectra

spectra — noun

1. the plural form of spectrum — used when referring to more than one spectrum, whe

1.noun
Definition

the plural form of spectrum — used when referring to more than one spectrum, whether of light, sound, energy, or other ranges of related things

Example

The telescope collected spectra from three distant stars during the night.

plural subject + plural verb 'collected'

These spectra show the chemical makeup of several unknown gases in the atmosphere.

demonstrative 'these' with plural noun

Grammar Patterns

spectra + plural verb

Usage Note

Always use 'spectra' (not 'spectrums') as the plural of 'spectrum'. For a single range or distribution, use the singular 'spectrum'. See the main entry at 'spectrum' for full definitions, examples, and related word forms.

Common Mistakes

The light spectra was analysed in the lab.
The light spectra were analysed in the lab.
'spectra' is a plural noun and must be paired with a plural verb.

Word family

Etymology

LatinEnglish

Borrowed directly from Latin 'spectra', the neuter plural of 'spectrum' (appearance, image). English adopted the Latin plural form rather than adding a native -s suffix, following a pattern used for other Latin-derived scientific terms.