© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

ghoul

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ɡuːl/

KK: /gʊl/

noun
Definition

A mythical creature or spirit that is known for stealing from graves and eating dead bodies, often associated with horror and the macabre.


Example

In the story, the ghoul lurked in the shadows, waiting for nightfall to search for its next meal.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about that movie with the ghoul in it?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it was really creepy!
Sloth A
I can't believe how they portrayed the ghoul — it was so realistic!
Sloth B
I know, right? It made the whole film even more thrilling.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spirit
phantom
specter
Antonyms
angel
hero
savior
Root Explanation

**Ghoul** → The word 'ghoul' originates from Arabic 'غول' (ghūl), meaning a demon or evil spirit that robs graves and feeds on human flesh. It was adopted into English through French in the 18th century, retaining its original meaning of a creature associated with the dead and graveyards.

Memory Tip

Imagine a creature that 'feeds' on the dead, as the Arabic root suggests. This helps you remember that a ghoul is a demon associated with graveyards and the act of consuming human flesh.

Visually Confused Words
dhoul
Is this page helpful?