First Known Use: 1786
Dictionary
ghoul
noun \ˈgül\
: an evil creature in frightening stories that robs graves and eats dead bodies
Full Definition of GHOUL
1
: a legendary evil being that robs graves and feeds on corpses
2
: one suggestive of a ghoul; especially : one who shows morbid interest in things considered shocking or repulsive
— ghoul·ish \ˈgü-lish\ adjective
— ghoul·ish·ly adverb
— ghoul·ish·ness noun
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Origin of GHOUL
Arabic ghūl
GHOUL Defined for Kids
ghoul
noun \ˈgül\
Definition of GHOUL for Kids
1
: an evil being of legend that robs graves and feeds on dead bodies
2
: someone whose activities suggest those of a ghoul : an evil or frightening person
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