haunt
UK: hɔːnt | US: hɑːnt
vt. to visit or inhabit as a ghost
vt. to persistently recur to the mind
n. a place frequently visited
The word "haunt" traces back to Old French hanter, meaning "to frequent" or "to inhabit," possibly derived from Germanic roots related to "home" or "dwelling." Over time, it evolved to emphasize persistent presence—whether literal (ghosts lingering in a place) or figurative (memories recurring in the mind). The modern sense of a "haunt" as a familiar place reflects its original connotation of habitual visitation.
The old castle is said to be haunted by a restless spirit.
Memories of her laughter still haunt him years later.
This café was once a favorite haunt of local artists.
The detective returned to the crime scene, haunted by unanswered questions.
Legends claim the forest is haunted by creatures of the night.