Haunt: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in a negative sense. It typically describes a place often visited by ghosts or the experience of being troubled by something persistently.

• The old house is said to be haunted by a restless spirit
• Her past mistakes continue to haunt her

Ghost refers to a spirit or apparition of a dead person. It can be used in both scary and neutral contexts, such as when telling ghost stories or referring to someone's past.

• He claimed to have seen a ghost in the attic
• She feels like a ghost of her former self

Spook is a more informal word and carries a slightly humorous or light-hearted tone. It means to scare or startle someone.

• The cat spooked when it heard the loud noise
• The unexpected face in the window spooked her

This is a neutral phrase used to describe someone going to a particular place often, without any negative or supernatural connotations.

• He visits the library frequently to study
• They visit their grandparents' house frequently on weekends

Often used when referring to something that continuously comes to one's mind, usually in a distressing or eerie manner. It can pertain to memories, places, or even supernatural events.

• The old house on the hill is said to be haunted by spirits.
• The memory of the accident still haunts him every night.

Describes an intense and overwhelming preoccupation with someone or something. It often implies an unhealthy or excessive focus.

• Her obsession with cleanliness means she spends hours every day cleaning her house.
• His obsession with video games is starting to affect his schoolwork.

Refers to being engaged or absorbed in thought about something, often to the point of distraction. It is typically less intense than an obsession.

• Her preoccupation with the upcoming exam was evident in her lack of attention during class.
• John's preoccupation with his new project made him forget about the meeting.

Used to describe difficulties or problems. It can range from minor issues to serious worries. It often carries a negative connotation.

• He's been having car troubles for the past week.
• Her financial troubles have been causing her a lot of stress lately.

Used informally to describe a place where people frequently spend time relaxing or socializing. It can be a café, bar, or any casual gathering spot.

• The new café downtown has become our favorite hangout.
• Teenagers often look for cool hangout spots during weekends.