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.”