apparition definition

1. a ghostly appearing figure
• examples: we were unprepared for the apparition that confronted us
2. the appearance of a ghostlike figure
• examples: I was recalled to the present by the apparition of a frightening specter
3. something existing in perception only
• examples: a ghostly apparition at midnight
4. an act of appearing or becoming visible unexpectedly
• examples: natives were amazed at the apparition of this white stranger