spectre

/ˈspektər/

Definitions

1. noun

a ghostly or supernatural being, especially a harbinger of death.

“The old mansion was said to be haunted by a malevolent spectre.”

2. noun

an idea or concept that inspires fear or dread.

“The spectre of unemployment loomed over the entire community.”

3. noun

a person or thing that inspires fear or dread.

“The politician’s opponent was a spectre of corruption in the public’s eyes.”

4. verb

to haunt or haunt someone with a ghostly or supernatural presence.

“The village was said to be spectred by a restless spirit.”

Synonyms

  • apparition
  • ghost
  • haunt
  • revenant

Antonyms

  • angel
  • benefactor