VocabDictionary

haunted

/ˈhɔːntɪd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having or showing signs of being visited by ghosts or spirits; alternatively, showing signs of emotional distress or preoccupation.

Example Sentences:
  • The old Victorian mansion was rumored to be haunted by the ghost of its original owner.
  • She had a haunted look in her eyes, as if she were reliving a painful memory.
2.verb

Past tense and past participle of haunt; to have persistently visited or appeared in a place or to a person.

Example Sentences:
  • The tragedy haunted him for the rest of his life.
  • Memories of the war haunted the veterans long after they returned home.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “haunted”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'haunten', meaning to frequent or visit habitually, which came from the Old French 'hanter'. The sense of being visited by ghosts evolved in the late 16th century, shifting from the idea of a place being 'frequented' by people to being 'frequented' by spirits.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'haunt' as a place where ghosts 'hunt' for souls.

Frequently Asked Questions About “haunted

1. What is the meaning of “haunted” in English?

In English, haunted (adjective) is defined as: “Having or showing signs of being visited by ghosts or spirits; alternatively, showing signs of emotional distress or preoccupation.”.

2. How do you use “haunted” in a sentence?

The old Victorian mansion was rumored to be haunted by the ghost of its original owner.

3. What are English synonyms of “haunted”?

Common synonyms include:spooky,obsessed,tormented,spectral,frequented

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “haunted”?

Derived from the Middle English 'haunten', meaning to frequent or visit habitually, which came from the Old French 'hanter'. The sense of being visited by ghosts evolved in the late 16th century, shifting from the idea of a place being 'frequented' by people to being 'frequented' by spirits.