duppy

/ ˈdʌpɪ /

noun

1. a spirit or ghost

Word History and Origins

Origin of duppy¹

C18: probably of African origin

Example Sentences

Cubina, less given to superstitious inclinings, only for a moment permitted himself to be mystified with the idea of a “Duppy.”

From Project Gutenberg

One kind of duppy is a mermaid—but I can find no indication that she came from Africa.

From Project Gutenberg

Every Duppy walks two feet above the ground, floating in the air.

From Project Gutenberg

If it is a very bad Duppy, it makes the place where it is unbearably hot.

From Project Gutenberg

If not a human being, it must be a “duppy, or de debbil hisself!”

From Project Gutenberg