spook
/ˈspuːk/Definitions
1. noun
a ghost or specter, especially one believed to haunt a particular place; a person or animal that is frightening or intimidating
“The old mansion was said to be haunted by a spook that appeared in the mirrors.”
2. verb
to frighten or intimidate someone or something, especially in a sudden or unexpected way
“The loud noise spooked the horses and made them run wildly.”
3. verb
to make something seem more exciting or frightening than it really is
“The movie tried to spook the audience with its use of special effects.”