ghoulish

adjective

Definition of ghoulishnext
as in ghostly

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ghoulish The fear and horror is handled dramatically without becoming grisly or ghoulish. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 2 June 2026 Concept art for Madame Leota’s Swinging Wake shows the street party will include familiar Haunted Mansion characters like the cemetery caretaker, grave diggers, ballroom dancers and a few ghoulish ghosts. — Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 2 June 2026 The ghoulish gathering is intended for attendees 17 and older. — Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026 Horror hounds might get annoyed at how James is methodical in detailing the various factors influencing Hana to take ghoulish acts and even start making ash out of an obese corpse that her class is studying. — Randy Myers, Mercury News, 21 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ghoulish
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ghoulish
  1. ghostly
  2. spectral
  3. ghastly
  4. eerie
  5. spooky
  6. haunting
  7. creepy
  8. ghostlike
Adjective
  • Together, Grace and Rose must uncover the Harrow Home’s secrets and seek justice—or ghostly vengeance—for the young women who suffered there.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 3 Aug. 2026
  • But as his novel goes on, nighttime scenes and vivid memories are replaced by exchanges of purely expository dialogue, which seeks to explain to the reader, point by point, the book’s ghostly developments.
    — Robert Rubsam, The Atlantic, 20 July 2026
Definition of ghostly
Adjective
  • As this unfolds, La’An attempts to work the ship’s computer but only finds more footage of Harper, who then shows up in person in desiccated, spectral form before disappearing.
    — Keith Phipps, Vulture, 30 July 2026
  • Scientists can pore over these spectral fingerprints to reconstruct what elements created them and in what quantities.
    — Rahul Rao, Space.com, 23 July 2026
Definition of spectral
Adjective
  • Wilson was a ghastly 6 of 21 from the free-throw line and led all summer leaguers in turnovers despite only playing 110 minutes.
    — John Hollinger, New York Times, 22 July 2026
  • Wilder’s work has since faced criticism for depicting some ghastly attitudes toward Native Americans.
    — Judy Berman, Time, 9 July 2026
Definition of ghastly
Adjective
  • That feeling is not helped by looking at the others around you, who, in the eerie, silvery light, suddenly look almost ghoulish.
    — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 3 Aug. 2026
  • However, there was a bit of an eerie coincidence that fans started to notice as the day went on.
    — Matt Reigle OutKick, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of eerie
Adjective
  • Nestlé’s Summerween Cookie Doughs Make your summer a little spookier with one of Nestlé’s Summerween treats.
    — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The scene when Emily Blunt speaks in alien tongues was deeply spooky.
    — Adam Frank, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Definition of spooky
Adjective
  • There’s nothing more haunting than walking on those beautiful soundstages that are ghost towns.
    — Antonio Ferme, Variety, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Despite lingering radiation, Pripyat draws photographers and history enthusiasts eager to witness one of the most complete—and haunting—portraits of a city abruptly frozen.
    — Kieron Marchese, Architectural Digest, 27 July 2026
Definition of haunting
Adjective
  • From giant ghosts and pumpkins to creepy characters and playful designs, larger-than-life inflatables are a fun way to take your outdoor Halloween decorations to the next level.
    — Casey DelBasso, ABC News, 10 Aug. 2026
  • The five-parter from Tiger King co-director Eric Goode features reptile dealers with a fondness for creepy crawlies and a loose connection to ethical and legal mores.
    — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 8 Aug. 2026
Definition of creepy
Adjective
  • Diners have toasted to him ever since, trading stories of feeling ghostlike brushes along their legs during Lowcountry meals.
    — Chelsea Brasted, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026
Definition of ghostlike

Browse Nearby Words

ghoulies
ghoulish
ghoulishness
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Cite this Entry

“Ghoulish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ghoulish. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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