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How to Say "ghost" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “ghost” is “fantasma” — use 'fantasma' for the most common, general understanding of a ghost as a supernatural being, often associated with hauntings..

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fantasma

/fahn-TAHS-mah//fanˈtasma/

nounA2general
Use 'fantasma' for the most common, general understanding of a ghost as a supernatural being, often associated with hauntings.
A translucent white ghost figure with a flowing bottom edge floating in a dark blue, simple room.

Examples

Dicen que un viejo fantasma vive en ese castillo abandonado.

They say an old ghost lives in that abandoned castle.

Mi hermano vio el fantasma de una mujer en el espejo.

My brother saw the specter of a woman in the mirror.

Masculine Nouns Ending in -A

Even though 'fantasma' ends in -a, it is always a masculine noun, meaning you must use 'el' (the) and masculine adjectives with it: 'el fantasma blanco' (the white ghost).

Using the Wrong Article

Mistake: “La fantasma es aterradora.”

Correction: El fantasma es aterrador. (The ghost is terrifying.) Remember to use 'el' for this word.

aparecido

ah-pah-reh-SEE-doh/apaɾeˈsiðo/

nounB2general
Choose 'aparecido' when referring to a ghost that has appeared or manifested itself, often in local legends or folklore.
A friendly, translucent white ghost figure floating gently in a dark blue nighttime setting.

Examples

Los abuelos contaban historias de un aparecido en la hacienda vieja.

The grandparents told stories about a ghost in the old ranch.

Vi una sombra, pero no sé si era un aparecido o solo mi imaginación.

I saw a shadow, but I don't know if it was an apparition or just my imagination.

Derived Noun

This noun literally means 'the one who has appeared.' Many Spanish nouns are formed this way by taking the past participle and treating it like a thing or person.

espíritu

nounB1literary, religious
Use 'espíritu' primarily when referring to a spirit in a more philosophical or religious context, or for a phantom in older literature.

Examples

Dicen que el cuerpo muere, pero el espíritu es eterno.

They say the body dies, but the spirit is eternal.

sombra

/SOM-brah//ˈsom.bɾa/

nounB2figurative
Employ 'sombra' metaphorically to describe a ghost or supernatural entity, often implying a diminished or spectral presence.
A clear glass jar that is nearly empty, showing only a small trace of bright red sand remaining at the bottom.

Examples

No queda ni la sombra de lo que fue antes.

There is not even a trace of what it once was.

Tenía la sombra de la duda en su voz.

He had a hint of doubt in his voice.

Figurative Use

When used figuratively, 'sombra' often refers to something intangible, like a feeling, memory, or a slight presence.

Fantasma vs. Espíritu

Learners often confuse 'fantasma' and 'espíritu.' Remember that 'fantasma' is the most direct translation for a typical ghost, especially one associated with hauntings. 'Espíritu' leans more towards the concept of a soul or consciousness, or a more archaic/literary phantom.

Related Translations

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