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Definition of poltergeist

poltergeist

/ˈpoʊl.tɚ.ɡaɪst/
pol · ter · geist
Plural:poltergeists
•
Adjective:poltergeistic
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poltergeist Lexical Profile

poltergeist Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

In folklore and parapsychology, a mischievous ghost or supernatural spirit believed to manifest its presence by making loud noises and throwing or moving physical objects.

Example

"The homeowners attributed the unexplained knocking sounds and falling dishes to a restless poltergeist."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for poltergeist

• Nearby Words

pollyanna
pollywog
polo
poltergeist
poly
polyamorist
polyamorous

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-19th century from German Poltergeist, a compound of poltern ('to make a noise or rumble') and Geist ('ghost or spirit').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Poltergeist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/poltergeist
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