Poltergeist
Poltergeist
Poltergeist (/ˈpoʊltərˌɡaɪst/; from German poltern, "to make sound" and Geist, "ghost") is a type of ghost or spirit that is responsible for physical disturbances, such as loud noises and objects being moved or destroyed. They are purportedly capable of pinching, biting, hitting, and tripping people. Most accounts of poltergeists describe the movement or levitation of objects such as furniture and cutlery, or noises such as knocking on doors.
Etymology
The term "poltergeist" comes from the German words poltern ("to make sound") and Geist ("ghost"), and the term itself translates as "noisy ghost" or "noisy spirit". The concept of a poltergeist has its roots in folklore and superstitions.
Related Terms
- Ghost: An apparition of a dead person which is believed to appear or become manifest to the living, typically as a nebulous image.
- Spirit: The non-physical part of a person which is the seat of emotions and character; the soul.
- Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed through the generations by word of mouth.
- Superstition: Excessively credulous belief in and reverence for supernatural beings.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Poltergeist
- Wikipedia's article - Poltergeist
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