Phantom Meaning and Definition
Phantom
Pronunciation
/ˈfæntəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A phantom is an apparition or specter that is seen as a vague or shadowy form, often associated with death or the afterlife.
Examples
- The phantoms that haunted the abandoned mansion were said to be the spirits of former occupants.
- The ghostly figure of a phantom ship was reported to have appeared on the horizon.
Synonyms
- Ghost
- Specter
Antonyms
- Living
- Substantial
Additional Information
Phantoms are typically associated with the supernatural or paranormal, and are often depicted in fiction and folklore as eerie or unsettling beings.
In some contexts, the term “phantom” can also refer to an object or thing that is elusive or difficult to grasp, such as a phantom limb or a phantom pain.
Etymology
The word “phantom” originates from the Latin “phantasma”, meaning “appearance” or “illusion”.
Usage Notes
In formal writing, it is generally preferred to use the term “specter” or “ghost” instead of “phantom”, as these terms are more precise and less likely to be confused with other meanings.
Cultural References
Phantoms have appeared in numerous works of fiction, including literature, film, and television. Examples include the Phantom of the Opera, a classic novel by Gaston Leroux, and the TV series “Ghost Adventures”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A “phantom attack” refers to an unexplained or mysterious event, often with a sense of fear or unease.
Related Words or Phrases
Phantasm
Paranormal
Collocations
Phantom limb
Phantom pain
Frequency of Use
Phantom is a relatively uncommon term in everyday language, but it is often used in specific contexts such as literature, film, and paranormal investigation.
Common Misspellings
Phanteom
Phantomme