The word "ghost" refers to the spirit or soul of a deceased person that is believed to appear to the living. In a broader sense, it can also mean any kind of apparition or haunting presence. Ghosts are often associated with myths, folklore, and supernatural tales, causing fear or curiosity among those who believe in them.
The word "ghost" comes from the Old English "gāstā," which means "spirit" or "soul." It has roots in various Germanic languages, such as the Old High German "geist" and the Old Norse "gandr," signifying a similar notion of a spirit or essence.