preta

noun

pre·​ta

ˈprātə

plural -s

1

Hinduism : a wandering spirit of a dead person who is not at rest

2

Buddhism : an unresting ghost tortured incessantly by hunger and thirst

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, from pra- before, forward, away + ita gone, past participle of eti he goes

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now