Haunted: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes a place, often a house, thought to be visited by ghosts or spirits. Can also describe someone troubled by a memory.

• The abandoned mansion at the end of the street is said to be haunted
• She was haunted by the memories of her past mistakes

Usually refers to a severe and widespread problem or an illness that affects a lot of people. Can also describe being continuously troubled or bothered by something.

• The town was plagued by a mysterious disease that spread quickly
• He was plagued by doubts about his decision

Intense suffering, either physical or mental. Often used when someone is being severely troubled or harassed.

• She was tormented by nightmares every night
• The captured soldier was tormented by his enemies in the hopes of extracting information

Indicates a strong, continuous preoccupation or focus on a particular thought, idea, or activity, often to an unhealthy degree.

• He's been obsessing over his new project for weeks and can't think about anything else
• She obsesses about her appearance constantly