Haunt

Definition

Haunt primarily refers to a place frequented by a specific person or group of people, or a ghostly figure appearing repeatedly in the same place or to the same person.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɔnt/
• Respelling: HAWNT (with "HAW" as in "saw" and "NT" as in "ant")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɔːnt/
• Respelling: HAWNT (with "HAW" as in "saw" and "NT" as in "ant")

In both dialects, "haunt" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "HAWNT."

Etymology

The term "haunt" derives from the Old French "hanter," meaning "to frequent, resort to, be familiar with." It is possibly influenced by Old Norse "heinta" (to lead astray).

Derivatives

• Haunted (adjective)
• Haunting (adjective)
• Hauntingly (adverb)
• Haunter (noun)
• Hauntings (noun, plural)

Synonyms

• Stalk
• Frequent
• Obsess

Antonyms

• Avoid
• Shun
• Eschew

Usage

The term "haunt" is used in various contexts, including describing places frequented by people, locations thought to be visited by ghosts, and situations or memories that persistently trouble a person's mind.

Related Terms

• Ghost
• Spirit
• Apparition
• Specter
• Poltergeist

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Visit Frequently: To go to a place often or regularly.
  • Example: The old café was a place where artists used to haunt.

• To Appear as a Ghost: To manifest as a ghostly presence in a particular location.
  • Example: The legend says that the ghost of the woman haunts the abandoned mansion.

• To Trouble or Disturb: To persistently occupy the mind, especially in a disturbing or unsettling way.
  • Example: The memory of the accident continues to haunt him.

Noun

• A Place Frequently Visited: A location regularly visited by a person or group of people.
  • Example: The small bookstore became a popular haunt for local writers.

• A Place Thought to Be Visited by Ghosts: A location believed to be inhabited by spirits.
  • Example: The castle is considered a haunt of several restless spirits.

Note: The term "haunt" is versatile, representing both physical locations frequently visited and the more ethereal concept of apparitions or lingering memories. It can carry neutral, positive, or negative connotations based on its context. For example, a beloved café can be a regular haunt, whereas past mistakes might haunt one's thoughts.