haint

A haint is a term with origins in Southern American folklore, generally referring to a ghost or a supernatural apparition. The word itself is thought to be a contraction of "haunt" or "haunted." Haints are often depicted as spirits of the deceased who remain in the earthly realm for various reasons, such as unfinished business, a violent death, or a strong attachment to a particular place or person.

Descriptions of haints can vary widely. Some accounts portray them as benevolent or harmless entities, while others describe them as malevolent or frightening spirits. They may manifest visually as shadowy figures, translucent forms, or even interact with the physical world by moving objects, making noises, or causing changes in temperature. The belief in haints is often intertwined with traditions of ancestor veneration and storytelling within communities.

The concept of a haint is particularly prevalent in the folklore of the American South, where it is a common motif in ghost stories, local legends, and cultural narratives. While "haint" is often used interchangeably with "ghost," it carries a specific regional connotation and often evokes a sense of spectral presence tied to a particular location or history. The term can also be used more broadly to describe any unsettling or uncanny presence.