ghost

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/ɡoʊst/
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A non‑physical spirit or its likeness, and by extension any appearance, copy, or abrupt disappearance in communication, as well as the name of a Swedish metal band.

Examples

  • Children love stories about friendly ghosts.
  • A ghost materialized in the hallway at midnight.
  • The ghost emerged from the mist.
  • She decided to ghost the chat after the fight.
  • The ghost lingered at the edge of the forest.

Similar words

specter
materialize
phantom
cut off
show up
appear
shade
spirit
manifest
apparition

Meanings

Disembodied spirit

noun
culture
neutral
A non‑physical entity believed to be the soul or essence of a deceased person or animal.

Examples

  • The old house is said to be haunted by a ghost.
  • She felt a chill when the ghost passed by.
  • Legends speak of a ghost that roams the battlefield.
  • The ghost of the ship appeared in the fog.
  • Children love stories about friendly ghosts.
  • A ghost was captured on the security camera.

Similar words

To appear as a specter

verb
culture
neutral
To manifest or become visible as a ghost, especially in stories or folklore.

Examples

  • A ghost materialized in the hallway at midnight.
  • The ghost emerged from the mist.
  • Suddenly, a ghost appeared before the villagers.
  • The ancient curse caused the ghost to manifest.
  • During the séance, a ghost showed up.
  • The ghost lingered at the edge of the forest.

Similar words

To cut off communication

verb
social
slang
To abruptly stop responding to someone, typically in a dating or online context.

Examples

  • After their argument, she ghosted him and never replied.
  • He thought they were dating, but she just ghosted him.
  • I tried to message her, but she ghosted me.
  • When the project stalled, the manager ghosted the team.
  • She decided to ghost the chat after the fight.
  • They felt ignored when he ghosted them for weeks.

Similar words

Etymology

FAQ

What does ghost mean as a noun?

As a noun, ghost refers to a non‑physical spirit of a deceased person or animal.

How is ghost used as a verb in folklore?

When used as a verb, ghost means to appear or become visible as a specter in stories.

What does it mean to ghost someone in modern slang?

In slang, ghost means to abruptly stop responding to someone, ending communication without explanation.

Are there any common mistakes when using ghost?

A frequent error is using ghost as a noun for the act of cutting off communication; the correct verb form is ghost (e.g., She ghosted him).

What are some synonyms for ghost?

Synonyms include spirit, specter, phantom, apparition, shade, and wraith.

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