Ghost
/ɡoʊst/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe soul of a dead person, often appearing as a visible figure.
/ɡoʊst/
The spirit of a dead person; apparition.
The old house was rumored to be haunted by a ghost.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who's passed away coming back to visit, but they're see-through! That's a ghost. Like, 'The old house is rumored to have a ghost that walks the halls at midnight.'
👶 For kids: A ghost is a pretend person who used to be alive but is now a spirit that some people believe they can see!
More Examples
She claimed to have seen a ghost in the graveyard.
The spooky movie was about a vengeful ghost.
How It's Used
"Many people believe they have seen the ghost of a former resident."
"Shakespeare's *Hamlet* features the ghost of the king."
To write something for someone else who takes credit; to suddenly cut off communication with someone.
/ɡoʊst/
To write or assist in writing something for someone else who is credited as the author; to secretly end a relationship.
He ghosted the famous person's biography.
💡 Simply: Like when a writer helps someone write a book but doesn't get their name on it, they're 'ghosting' the work. Also, when someone suddenly stops talking to you, like poof!, that's called 'ghosting'. For example, 'He ghosted his friend after their fight', or 'She ghostwrote the president's speech'.
👶 For kids: When a person pretends to write something for someone, it is called ghosting. It is also when someone stops answering your texts.
More Examples
She felt betrayed when he ghosted her after several dates.
The author decided to ghostwrite the book anonymously.
How It's Used
"He ghosted the autobiography for the celebrity."
"She ghosted him after the first date."
Idioms & expressions
give up the ghost
To die.
"The old car finally gave up the ghost after years of service."
ghost town
A deserted town or city.
"After the mine closed, the town became a ghost town."
From Old English *gāst*, related to *gǣstan* ('to frighten'). Proto-Germanic *gaistaz* (spirit).
The term 'ghost' has been used in literature and folklore for centuries, often symbolizing fear, mystery, and the afterlife. Early uses focused on the supernatural aspects.
Memory tip
Think of Casper the Friendly Ghost – a visible, ethereal presence.
Word Origin
"spirit, breath"