poltergeist

[ pohl-ter-gahyst ]

noun

1. a ghost or spirit supposed to manifest its presence by noises, knockings, etc.

poltergeist

/ ˈpɒltəˌɡaɪst /

noun

1. a spirit believed to manifest its presence by rappings and other noises and also by acts of mischief, such as throwing furniture about

Word History and Origins

Origin of poltergeist¹

1840–50; < German Poltergeist, equivalent to polter ( n ) to make noise, knock, rattle + Geist ghost

Word History and Origins

Origin of poltergeist¹

C19: from German, from poltern to be noisy + Geist ghost

Example Sentences

He said he also dealt with reports of poltergeist activity, which is the belief held by some people that a spirit or force can move furniture or throw objects around a house.

From BBC

The famous “Poltergeist” house, the central location in the classic Tobe Hooper-directed horror film, has found a buyer less than three weeks after it was placed on the market.

From Los Angeles Times

Homes made famous in popular films sometimes can be tricky to sell, especially those in the horror genre, but Murdock said she quickly decided to lean into that theme with the “Poltergeist” house.

From Los Angeles Times

The Simi Valley home where the classic horror movie “Poltergeist” was filmed is officially for sale and the Realtor promises this house is clean of any “ghostly antics.”

From Los Angeles Times

Then she names a few examples: “‘The Omen,’ ‘The Exorcist,’ ‘Poltergeist.’

From New York Times