Origin and Meaning of Ghost

A spirit or apparition of a deceased person.

Origin: English - Derived from the Old English word 'gāst' which means 'spirit' or 'soul'. The term has evolved to represent a spectral entity, often associated with hauntings.

• The concept of a ghost has existed in various cultures around the world, often depicted as the spirit of a deceased person who has unfinished business.
• Ghosts are a prominent motif in folklore, literature, and film, often associated with horror and the supernatural.
• Notable references include Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', where the ghost of King Hamlet appears to his son, and the modern film 'Ghost', which further popularized the theme.
• While not commonly used as a personal name, 'Ghost' may appear as a stage name or alias in music and entertainment, notably in genres such as hip-hop and horrorcore.
• Variations on the theme can be seen in other names that invoke similar imagery such as 'Wraith' or 'Specter', but 'Ghost' stands out for its direct reference.