Definitions

1. adjective

like or characteristic of a ghoul; cruel or savage in a way that is considered unpleasant or frightening

“The ghoulish decorations in the haunted house were a bit too much for me.”

2. adjective

giving the impression of cruel or savage delight in something unpleasant or frightening

“The ghoulish grin on the vampire’s face sent chills down my spine.”

3. noun

a feeling or atmosphere of cruelty, savagery, or unpleasantness; a sense of being surrounded by or immersed in something unpleasant or frightening

“The ghoulishness of the abandoned asylum was palpable as soon as we stepped inside.”