disembodied
UK: ˌdɪsɪmˈbɒdɪd | US: ˌdɪsɪmˈbɑːdɪd
adj. separated from the body; lacking physical form
adj. (of a voice or sound) seeming not to come from any visible source
The word "disembodied" combines the prefix "dis-" (indicating separation) with "embodied" (from "em-" + "body"), originally meaning "to give a body to." Over time, "disembodied" evolved to describe something separated from physical form, often used metaphorically for voices or spirits. The progression reflects a shift from literal physicality to abstract absence of form.
The disembodied voice echoed through the empty hallway.
She felt a strange presence, as if a disembodied spirit were watching her.
The recording played a disembodied laugh that sent chills down his spine.
In the fog, the lighthouse beam seemed almost disembodied.
Philosophers debate whether consciousness could exist in a disembodied state.