Meaning & Definition of word "Spook"

Spook

/spuːk/

noun:

  • 1. a ghost or spirit.
    • Example: The old castle is said to be haunted by a spook that appears at midnight.
  • 2. a spy or informant.
    • Example: The detective knew that there was a spook in the organization feeding them information.

verb:

  • 1. to frighten or scare someone.
    • Example: The sudden noise from the dark alley spooked her as she walked by.
  • 2. to cause a person to become alarmed or nervous.
    • Example: He was spooked by the ghost story told around the campfire.

Etymology

Originated in the early 19th century, possibly from Dutch 'spook', meaning ghost.

Common Phrases and Expressions

spook someone out:

To make someone feel uneasy or uncomfortable.

spooked out:

Feeling frightened or unsettled.

Related Words

ghost:

An apparition of a dead person.

haunt:

A place frequented by a specified person or group.

phantom:

A ghost or a figment of the imagination.

specter:

A visible ghost.

Slang Meanings of spook

Meaning: An undercover agent or spy.

Example Sentence: He's a real spook working for the government.

Meaning: To intimidate or scare someone.

Example Sentence: Don't spook the competition with your bold moves.