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Ectoplasm - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Ectoplasm is a term from paranormal studies referring to a mysterious, mist-like substance said to be emitted by spiritual mediums during séances. It is also used in biology to describe the outer gel-like layer of cytoplasm in cells.

ectoplasm

/ˈɛktəˌplæzəm/ /ˈɛktəˌplæzəm/

Definition:

A supernatural substance said to emanate from a medium during a spiritualistic trance.

Synonyms:

aura, emanation, spirit material, psychic residue

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

solid matter, physical body, tangible substance

Common Collocations:

ghostly ectoplasm, ectoplasmic residue, ectoplasmic manifestation

Derivatives:

ectoplasmic, ectoplasmatic

Usage Tips:

Use "ectoplasm" in paranormal contexts to describe a ghostly or spiritual substance.

Common Phrases:

ectoplasmic mist, ectoplasmic trail, ghostly ectoplasm

Etymology:

From Greek "ektos" (outside) + "plasma" (something formed), meaning "external formation."

Examples:

  • 1. The medium claimed to produce ectoplasm during the séance.
  • 2. Scientists remain skeptical about the existence of ectoplasm in paranormal investigations.
  • 3. The ghost hunter photographed what he believed was ectoplasm floating in the air.
  • 4. Ectoplasm is often described as a misty or gelatinous substance in folklore.

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