Paranormal Terminology

Our Paranormal terminology page contains lots of common terms used when dealing in the paranormal. It is important to keep in mind that opinions differ on the definitions of certain terms. These definitions are meant to help give a general idea about important paranormal terms and not intended to be used for educational purposes.

Apparition
The act of becoming visible; appearance; visibility An apparition, more commonly referred to as a ghost, is the actual visible manifestation of a being. These are usually appearances of people or animals who are no longer living. Although There are many cases claiming the appearance of a living being to others as when they were known to be in an entirely different location. This too, could be considered an apparition. Apparitions can appear to be solid or almost transparent. Some believe that apparitions are an imprint left by the living on the atmosphere around them, that can still be seen long after their death.

Angel
An angel is a spiritual being found in many religions around the world. They are often regarded as messengers of God. Others believe that angels act as both messenger and protector of humanity, against the unseen evils of the world. Hence, guardian angels. Angels are almost always considered an extension of a more supreme being. Angels have been an intricate part of human religion and spirituality for as long as history has been recorded. Just as with their counterparts, angels are considered by some as a spiritual force, while others believe that angels can take physical form.

Cold Spots
Cold spots are small self-contained air pockets that feel colder than the ambient temperature, they have been recorded between 10-40 degrees lower than the ambient air. They are usually found in the location at the approximate time of a manifestation. Witnesses frequently describe cold spots, or relate that they felt a chill upon entering the area (of a manifestation). It is theorized that these cold spots are the result of the manifestation using the heat energy of the surrounding air as fuel.

Demon
With deep roots In religion, folklore, and mythology a demon is a supernatural force that is generally described as a malevolent spirit. In Christianity demons are generally believed to be fallen angels, formerly of God. A demon is believed by some to be a force that can be conjured and controlled. Demons are also believed to have the ability to possess or inhabit the body of humans, requiring an exorcism to remove it. A demon or demons are portrayed differently in different cultures. Some believe demons to be actual physical beings that can take the form of anything, including small children. Others consider demons as more of a spiritual force of evil battling for one's soul. Demons have been feared and written about in almost every culture in one form or another for as long as history has been recorded

Ectoplasm
Ectoplasm is generally thought of as left over residue from paranormal activity. It is generally thought of a either a solid or vapor form.

EVP
sections of static noise on the radio or electronic recording which some listeners believe sound like voices speaking words, and which paranormal investigators interpret as the voices of ghosts or spirits. When an EVP is recorded there are no voices present at the time of the recording. An EVP is only audible when played back.

EMF
Electromagnetic Fields-EMF's are created naturally on the earth and also by man made objects. A high concentration of electromagnetic activity in a specific area is considered by many as a sign of paranormal activity. Prolonged exposure to high EMF's can actually cause paranoia and sometimes hallucinations. These effects can sometimes be attributed to suspected paranormal experiences.

Extrasensory Perception (ESP)
Otherwise known as a "sixth sense" ESP is an ability to perceive happenings or information that is normally not perceived through any of our traditional senses

Mist
This is the most common form of ghosts on film. They are usually blankets of light or a mist that can take various shapes and sizes. Often mists are associated with full body apparitions. Some theorize that this could be ectoplasm, which some people believe is residue from paranormal activity.

Orb
Orbs are found in many photographs taken in known haunted or paranormal locations. They usually appear as circular white balls of light, but can be a variety of colors. Sometimes they appear solid and other times they can seem transparent. Orbs are widely believed to be concentrated energy created due to paranormal activity, or the actual manifestation of a spirit in the form of energy. Orbs have been documented in both still photos and video footage. Although some suspected orbs can be explained by dust particles or bugs, others remain a mystery.

Poltergeist
A poltergeist is a spirit, sometimes demonic, that manifests itself by the physical movement and sometimes breaking of objects. Poltergeists are generally believed to be centered around a single individual. Usually that individual has been experiencing some form of emotional stress or trauma prior to manifestation.