Definition

A creature from English folklore that often looks like a large dog and is thought to bring bad luck or signal death.

Example

In the dark of night, the villagers whispered about the barghest that roamed the moors, warning each other to stay indoors.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the legend about the barghest?

Yeah, I think it's that ghostly dog that appears before something bad happens.

Exactly! I always find those tales so creepy yet fascinating.

Same here! I wonder how many people actually believe in the barghest.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barghest originates from Middle English 'barghest' or 'barguest', which is derived from the Old English 'bearg' (meaning hill) and 'gest' (meaning ghost or spirit). The word refers to a mythical creature or ghost, often associated with a hill or mound.

Memory Tip

Imagine a ghost ('gest') that is linked to a hill ('bearg') — that's why a barghest is a ghostly creature associated with hills.

Visually Confused Words