How Do You Spell GHOSTLY?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈə͡ʊstli] (IPA)

The word "ghostly" is spelled with three sounds: /g/ /ow/ /s-t-ly/. The first sound, /g/, is a voiced consonant pronounced by vibrating the vocal cords while air flows out of the mouth. The second sound, /ow/, is a diphthong pronounced by combining the sounds /o/ and /u/. The third sound, /s-t-ly/, is a cluster of consonants pronounced by producing a series of quick, distinct sounds with the tongue and lips. Altogether, the word "ghostly" is pronounced with a spooky, eerie tone fitting of its meaning.

GHOSTLY Meaning and Definition

  1. Ghostly is an adjective that refers to characteristics or qualities associated with or resembling a ghost. The term is primarily used to describe something that pertains to the supernatural realm or the realm of spirits. When describing a place or atmosphere as ghostly, it implies a sense of otherworldly or eerie presence, often associated with ghosts or paranormal activities. These places are typically depicted as being haunted or possessing a sense of haunting, with an eerie silence and a feeling of being watched or accompanied by unseen entities.

    In a figurative sense, ghostly can also describe an ethereal or insubstantial quality, as if it were not of this world. This can apply to a range of things, such as a ghostly figure in a painting, a ghostly voice or whisper, or even a ghostly sensation or feeling. It suggests a sense of intangibility or elusiveness, as if the subject is a specter or a mere illusion.

    Ghostly can also pertain to a pale, translucent appearance, much like a ghost's complexion. It is often used to describe a person's pallor, where the skin is unnaturally light or lacking color, conveying a drained or lifeless appearance. This usage highlights the connection between ghostly and the concept of death or the spirit world, where ghostly beings are often depicted as pale or transparent.

    Overall, ghostly encompasses a range of associations, primarily tied to the supernatural, the uncanny, and the mysterious. It represents a link to the realm of spirits and the intangible, often invoking an unsettling or haunting atmosphere.

  2. Pert. to the soul or spirit; spiritual; not carnal; not secular; relating to apparitions.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for GHOSTLY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for GHOSTLY

Etymology of GHOSTLY

The word "ghostly" originated from Middle English and is derived from the Old English word "gāstlic". In Old English, "gāst" meant "spirit" or "ghost", and "lic" meant "body" or "forms". Therefore, "gāstlic" referred to something related to spirits or ghosts in terms of characteristics, appearance, or nature. Over time, the word evolved into the modern English term "ghostly", retaining its essence of being connected to spirits or the supernatural.

Similar spelling words for GHOSTLY

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