Visual Descriptions:
* Ethereal: "A translucent figure, shimmering like moonlight on water, drifted through the room, its outline barely discernible."
* Spectral: "The spectral form of the old woman, her gown tattered and pale, stood at the foot of the bed, her face a mask of sorrow."
* Shadowy: "A long, sinuous shadow stretched across the wall, its edges flickering and blurring as if caught in a constant breeze. It was the only sign of the presence in the room."
* Decomposed: "His skin was mottled and gray, clinging to his bones like a worn-out garment. The eyes, once vibrant blue, were now hollow sockets, staring blankly into the void."
* Undead: "The creature that stood before them was a grotesque mockery of life – a skeleton draped in rotting flesh, its limbs contorted and twisted at unnatural angles."
Sensory Details:
* Sound: "A mournful sigh, like the wind whistling through a graveyard, echoed through the empty hallway. Then, a soft, chilling whisper brushed against his ear, "Remember me."
* Touch: "A cold, clammy hand gripped his arm, and he felt a surge of primal terror as a ghostly chill spread through his body."
* Smell: "The air was thick with the scent of decaying flowers, a musty, oppressive aroma that clung to the room like a shroud."
* Sight: "As he looked up, his heart skipped a beat. A single, flickering candle flame seemed to be dancing with an unseen presence, and a cold draft suddenly swept through the room."
Emotional Impact:
* Fear: "His blood ran cold as the icy gaze pierced his soul, and he felt a wave of terror engulf him."
* Sadness: "The ghost's mournful cries seemed to echo the pain it had carried for centuries."
* Anger: "A ghostly rage burned in its eyes, a flickering inferno of fury that sent shivers down his spine."
* Loneliness: "The ghost's presence was a chilling reminder of the isolation and despair that had haunted its afterlife."
Consider the story's context:
* Historical setting: Ghosts from different eras may have different appearances and behaviors. A Victorian ghost might be more elegant and mournful, while a medieval ghost might be more terrifying and menacing.
* Ghost's nature: Is it a benevolent spirit or a malevolent one? Their appearance and actions will reflect their motivations.
* Reader's expectations: Do you want to create a spooky, atmospheric story, or something more playful and whimsical?
By combining visual descriptions, sensory details, and emotional impact, you can create a vivid and compelling portrait of a ghost that will haunt your reader's imagination.