apparition

This term carries a strong sense of suddenness and visual shock. When referring to ghosts, it suggests a fleeting, ethereal presence rather than a permanent haunting, often evoking a feeling of dread or supernatural mystery. In a non-supernatural sense, the word describes a person or object that is so visually striking or out of place that they seem almost unreal. This usage is typically complimentary or descriptive of an overwhelming aesthetic impact, such as a person appearing in an elaborate costume.