ghostly

adjective

ghost·​ly ˈgōst-lē How to pronounce ghostly (audio)
ghostlier; ghostliest
1
: of or relating to the soul : spiritual
2
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a ghost : spectral
ghostliness noun
ghostly adverb

Examples of ghostly in a Sentence

A ghostly figure appears in the house at night.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ticket Information Beneath the modern bustle of Euston Station lies a ghostly network of unused tunnels, platforms, and passageways that once formed part of the early Underground. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025 However, this ghostly nature also makes neutrinos incredibly tough to detect. Robert Lea, Space.com, 17 June 2025 So having him as the ghostly presence in the show is about his relationship with Chloe. Hunter Ingram, Variety, 30 May 2025 Flocking is used to create an ashy look and prints are diffused, taking on a ghostly essence. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for ghostly

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ghostly was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Ghostly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ghostly. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

ghostly

adjective
ghost·​ly ˈgōst-lē How to pronounce ghostly (audio)
ghostlier; ghostliest
: of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a ghost
ghostliness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on ghostly

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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