Dictionary Entry: Ouija
1. Parts of Speech:
Noun
2. Definitions:
- A board with the letters of the alphabet, numbers, and other symbols printed on it, used to communicate with spirits. (source: Merriam-Webster)
- A board game in which players attempt to communicate with spirits or the deceased by using a planchette to spell out messages. (source: Oxford Languages)
3. Pronunciations:
- US: /ˈwiːdʒə/
- UK: /ˈwiːdʒə/
4. Origin and Usage:
The word "ouija" is a combination of the French and German words for "yes" (oui and ja, respectively). The Ouija board was first patented in 1890 and quickly gained popularity as a tool for communicating with spirits. It has been the subject of controversy and skepticism, with some people believing in its supernatural powers and others dismissing it as a hoax. The Ouija board has been featured in popular culture, including movies and television shows.
5. Synonyms:
spirit board, talking board, witch board
6. Related Words:
board, magic, seance, witch
7. Example Sentences:
- She and her friends gathered around the Ouija board to try to contact the spirit of her deceased grandfather.
- He was skeptical of the Ouija board and thought it was just a game.
- The Ouija board spelled out a message that sent chills down their spines.