Definition & Meaning of "ghost word"

What is a "ghost word"?

A ghost word is a term that appears in a dictionary or other reference work but does not actually exist in the language or is not commonly used. Ghost words often arise from typographical errors, misinterpretations, or confusion during the editing process. For example, a word may be mistakenly created by an editor who misreads a handwritten note or misprints a word. Ghost words can sometimes lead to amusing or interesting linguistic discussions, as they highlight the quirks and complexities of language documentation. While they may be listed in dictionaries, ghost words do not have a legitimate place in everyday language.