phantasmagoria

phan·tas·ma·go·ria

noun \(ˌ)fan-ˌtaz-mə-ˈgȯr-ē-ə\

Definition of PHANTASMAGORIA

1

: an exhibition of optical effects and illusions

2

a : a constantly shifting complex succession of things seen or imagined b : a scene that constantly changes

3

: a bizarre or fantastic combination, collection, or assemblage

— phan·tas·ma·gor·ic \-ˈgȯr-ik, -ˈgär-\ or phan·tas·ma·gor·i·cal \-i-kəl\ adjective

Examples of PHANTASMAGORIA

1. He saw a phantasmagoria of shadowy creatures through the fog.

Origin of PHANTASMAGORIA

French phantasmagorie, from phantasme phantasm (from Old French fantasme) + -agorie (perhaps from Greek agora assembly) — more at agora

First Known Use: circa 1802