# ghostly

/ˈɡoʊstɫi/ (US) · /ɡˈəʊstli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ghostly
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

looking or sounding like a ghost. You use this to describe something pale, quiet, or scary in a way that reminds you of a spirit.

For teachers: resembling or characteristic of a ghost, particularly in being faint, pale, or ethereal. Often describes visual or auditory phenomena that lack physical substance.

## Examples

- A ghostly figure appeared in the window of the old house.
- The abandoned ship drifted through the ghostly fog, its wooden hull creaking in the silence.
- The moonlight cast a ghostly glow over the ruins, illuminating the crumbling arches with a pale, silver light that felt both beautiful and unsettling.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun to describe appearance or atmosphere.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.