Ghostess

/ɡoʊˈstɛs/ noun

Definition

A female ghost or a woman who ghosts someone (rarely used).

Etymology

From 'ghost' + '-ess' feminine suffix, following patterns like 'actress' and 'hostess.' The term is archaic or playful, as most modern speakers just use 'ghost' for any gender.

Kelly Says

The '-ess' suffix used to be how English marked feminine versions of words, but it's become less common as we move toward gender-neutral language—very few people say 'ghostess' when 'ghost' works fine for anyone.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Feminine agent noun created via '-ess' suffix, historically marking women as derivative from male base form 'ghost' (spirit of deceased person, not gendered). The suffix '-ess' feminizes occupational/titular terms, often implying secondary status.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'ghost' for all genders; the suffix '-ess' is archaic in modern usage. If historical context requires distinction, specify explicitly.

Inclusive Alternatives

["ghost","female ghost"]

Related Words

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