paranormal

adjective

para·​nor·​mal ˌper-ə-ˈnȯr-məl How to pronounce paranormal (audio)
ˌpa-rə-;
ˈper-ə-ˌnȯr-, 
ˈpa-rə-
Synonyms of paranormalnext
: not scientifically explainable : supernatural
paranormal noun
paranormality
ˌper-ə-ˌnȯr-ˈma-lə-tē How to pronounce paranormal (audio)
ˌpa-rə-
noun
paranormally
ˌper-ə-ˈnȯr-mə-lē How to pronounce paranormal (audio)
ˌpa-rə-;
ˈper-ə-ˌnȯr-, 
ˈpa-rə-
adverb

Synonyms of paranormal

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Examples of paranormal in a Sentence

there are rumors that the old deserted mansion is the site of paranormal activity
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The profound connection between Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce is so uncanny as to prompt paranormal explanations. — Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026 Generally, you’re only required to disclose material facts about the home—which include things like structural damage or pest infestations—and paranormal activity isn’t considered a material fact. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Oct. 2026 Whether positive or negative, these stars aren’t alone in believing in paranormal activity. — Lydia Price, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2026 There's immediate signs of paranormal capabilities that nobody, Carrie included, have a handle on. — David Hookstead Outkick, FOXNews.com, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for paranormal

Word History

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paranormal was in 1905

Phrases Containing paranormal

Rhymes for paranormal

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Browse Nearby Words

paranomia
paranormal
paranotum
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Cite this Entry

“Paranormal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paranormal. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

paranormal

adjective
para·​nor·​mal ˌpar-ə-ˈnȯr-məl How to pronounce paranormal (audio)
: not understandable in terms of known scientific laws and phenomena
experiments in paranormal cognition of drawings—Psychological Abstracts
paranormally
-ē How to pronounce paranormal (audio)
adverb
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