{ } n. [ F. spectre, fr. L. spectrum an appearance, image, specter, fr. specere to look. See Spy, and cf. Spectrum. ] 1. Something preternaturally visible; an apparition; a ghost; a phantom. [ 1913 Webster ]
The ghosts of traitors from the bridge descend, With bold fanatic specters to rejoice. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. (Zool.) (a) The tarsius. (b) A stick insect. [ 1913 Webster ]
Specter bat (Zool.), any phyllostome bat. -- Specter candle (Zool.), a belemnite. -- Specter shrimp (Zool.), a skeleton shrimp. See under Skeleton. [ 1913 Webster ]