Spectral: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used to describe something that looks ghostly or eerie, often resembling a specter or ghost.

• The old house had a spectral light coming from the attic.
• His face took on a spectral pallor under the moonlight.

Best used to describe something full of bright colors or lively and exciting aspects.

• The parade was incredibly colorful, with floats and dancers in bright costumes.
• She has a very colorful personality, always full of energy and stories.

Often used to describe something that has different colors arranged in patterns or patches; also used in botany to describe leaves with different colors.

• The garden was full of variegated plants, adding texture and interest.
• Her dress was variegated, with patches of red, blue, and green.

Refers to something that has multiple colors in it, often in a more straightforward, descriptive manner.

• The multicolored scarf brightened up her winter coat.
• A multicolored mural covered the entire wall, making the alleyway look cheerful.

Use 'spectral' to describe something haunting, eerie, or ghost-like often in a scientific or poetic context. It's suitable for describing things that resemble or are related to ghosts but in a more abstract or less tangible way.

• The moon cast a spectral light over the desolate landscape.
• She saw a spectral figure in the old photograph.

Use 'ghostly' to describe something that resembles or is characteristic of a ghost. This term can be used in everyday language and carries a spooky or eerie connotation.

• A ghostly whisper echoed through the empty corridors.
• They saw a ghostly figure in the abandoned house.

Use 'phantom' to describe a ghost or something that seems real but isn't. This term can be used both in supernatural and metaphorical contexts. It often carries a mysterious or elusive connotation.

• He chased a phantom through the fog, only to find himself alone.
• The phantom pain in his leg persisted long after the injury had healed.

Use 'apparitional' when referring to something similar to an apparition or ghost, emphasizing the sudden or mysterious appearance of the entity. This term is often used in literary or descriptive contexts.

• The apparitional form appeared at the top of the staircase, startling everyone.
• There was an apparitional figure looming in the doorway.