ethereal

/ɪˈθiriəl/

/ɪˈθɪəriəl/

Other forms: ethereally

Something ethereal is airy and insubstantial, like a ghostly figure at the top of the stairs. This word can also describe something delicate and light, like a singer’s ethereal voice.

Ethereal comes from the Greek word for ether, which means “air” or more specifically “the upper regions of space.” An ethereal substance or sound is one that carries the feeling of light and air — something you might see in a vision that strikes you as heavenly or supernatural.

Definitions of ethereal

1. adjective

   characterized by lightness and insubstantiality; as impalpable or intangible as air
   “physical rather than ethereal forms”

   synonyms: aerial, aeriform, aery, airy

   insubstantial, unreal, unsubstantial

   lacking material form or substance; unreal
2. adjective

   characterized by unusual lightness and delicacy
   “this smallest and most ethereal of birds”

   synonyms: gossamer

   delicate

   exquisitely fine and subtle and pleasing; susceptible to injury
3. adjective

   of heaven or the spirit
   “ethereal melodies”

   synonyms: celestial, supernal

   heavenly

   of or belonging to heaven or god
4. adjective

   of or containing or dissolved in ether
   “ethereal solution”