Glossary of terms

Apparition - A disembodied spirit that has manifested into a visually recognizable form.

Astral Plane (Dimension) – A level of existence separate from, but parallel to, the physical world in which we exist.

Digital Thermometer – A device used to display and record the presence of hot or cold spots within a location.  The data from which can then be saved for later analysis.

Electromagnetic Field Meter (EMF) – A device used to record fluctuations in the electromagnetic field.  Its used is controversial among ghost hunters in that EMFs from power lines, TV sets, circuit boxes, etc. can give high EMF readings, but there are those that believe that a ghost actually disrupts this field.

Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) – Disembodied voices or other supernatural sounds that are inaudible to the human ear that are captured onto recording devices and discovered upon later review.

Exorcism – A religious ritual performed to expel an invading inhuman, or diabolical entity from a person or location.

Ghost – A disembodied spirit or soul.

Infrared Camera – A recording device used to capture images in darkness or low light environments.

Ghost Hunter/Paranormal Investigator – A person who attempts to gather evidence of ghosts or other paranormal activity.  This may be accomplished by means of still photography, video, audio, EVP recordings, EMF readings and a myriad of other media.

Haunting – A manifestation of a ghostly presence that is attached to a location or specific person.

Inhuman Entity – A negative entity believed never to have existed in human form, intent on causing harm to a living person.  Also referred to as a demon, or evil spirit. 

Intelligent Haunting –  A disembodied soul that is aware of its surroundings, and may be capable of interaction with, and mimicry of the living.

Matrixing – A natural tendency of the human mind to mentally “fill in the blanks”, so as to create a familiar shape or pattern. 

Paranormal –  Not scientifically explainable.

Phantom Odor – The appearance of an unexplained scent, typically flowers, cigars or cologne, which are associated with spirits, and do not seem to come from any identifiable source.

Poltergeist – A noisy, mischievous, ghost that is more often heard than seen.  Poltergeists may be capable of moving objects, and may also be able to communicate in a variety of settings.

Residual Haunting – A scene from the past, which seems as if it is being “played” out over and over again, when the conditions are exactly right.  In these cases, the participants often seem unaware of the spectator.   

Supernatural – A departing from what is usual or normal so as to be attributed to a ghost or spirit, of or relating to an order of existence beyond the visible observable universe  

Thermal Imaging Device –  A device that records images of infrared radiation (heat) which are invisible to the human eye.