Spirit-ridden

Characterized by the belief in or experience of being possessed, controlled, or influenced by spirits, particularly malevolent ones. This term often implies a state of mental, emotional, or physical distress believed to be caused by supernatural forces. The individual may exhibit erratic behavior, unusual physical symptoms, or experience a sense of overwhelming dread or powerlessness. The concept is deeply rooted in folklore, religious beliefs, and cultural practices that acknowledge a realm beyond the physical, where spirits can interact with and manipulate human lives. Understanding a 'spirit-ridden' state requires considering the specific cultural context and belief system.

Spirit-ridden meaning with examples

• The villagers whispered tales of the old woman, claiming she was spirit-ridden. Her sudden fits of rage and incoherent mumbling, along with her unnaturally gaunt appearance, fueled their fear. They believed a vengeful entity had taken root within her, causing the strange maladies that plagued her life and made her an outcast in her community, and so no one dared approach or assist.
• During the exorcism, the priest battled the demon, claiming the young man was spirit-ridden. He struggled against unseen forces as he recited incantations, attempting to free the individual from demonic influence. The congregation, a blend of trepidation and hope, watched as the battle unfolded, their faith and the health of the individual in the balance, each fearful of the spirit's power.
• In the haunted mansion, the protagonist experienced chilling whispers and fleeting shadows, signs they believed proved the house was spirit-ridden. They felt a constant sense of unease, even during the day, as they fought the overwhelming sense that something supernatural inhabited the space, and the shadows moved independently of their minds.
• After consuming the cursed artifact, the warrior quickly became spirit-ridden, his once noble spirit distorted by a malevolent entity. His loyal allies saw his personality become wicked, his actions filled with cruelty, and he became a shell of his former self, twisted by the spirit’s malicious power, and so they fought him instead of with him.
• Throughout the story, the protagonist's internal conflict reflects that they feel spirit-ridden. They experienced periods of emotional distress as they questioned their reality. They battled to maintain control of their thoughts, tormented by visions and voices that threatened their sanity, and fought to be free from the internal and external battles being fought by the malevolent spirit.