Spectre-Specter | Commonly Confused Words

Spectre

/ˈspektə/

A ghost or something that is feared or causes worry

A ghost or phantom that is often considered frightening or bothersome.

Spectre and specter are different spellings of the same word with identical meanings.
Spectre is the British English spelling, while specter is the American English spelling.
Think of centre vs center to help remember that spectre aligns with British English usage.
Both words refer to an apparition or ghost, but the preferred spelling depends on your location or the publication's style guide.
Remember re for Spectre like in the UK favourite, and er for Specter like in US favorite.