Definition

A type of ghost that is known for making loud noises and causing disturbances, often in a playful or mischievous way.

Example

The old house was said to be haunted by a poltergeist that would knock over furniture at night.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a poltergeist?

Yeah, they're supposed to be really mischievous spirits.

I read that they can create a lot of noise to get attention.

Exactly! It's like they want to play tricks on people.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Poltergeist is formed from "poltern" (from German, meaning to make noise or to rumble) and "geist" (from German, meaning spirit or ghost). The word describes a noisy spirit or ghost that is believed to cause disturbances.

Memory Tip

Imagine a spirit that makes a lot of noise — 'poltern' means to make noise, and 'geist' means spirit. This helps you remember that a poltergeist is a noisy ghost.

Visually Confused Words