The word "paranormal" is commonly misspelled as "paranormal" or "paranorma". Its correct spelling is /pærəˈnɔːməl/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The stress falls on the second syllable, "ra", and it ends with the consonant "l". "Para" means beyond or beside, and "normal" means usual, so the word describes something that is beyond what is considered normal or natural. The paranormal is often associated with supernatural, mystical, or unexplained phenomena that cannot be explained by science.
The paranormal refers to phenomena or experiences that are beyond the scope of scientific understanding and the natural laws that govern the physical world. It encompasses a wide range of supernatural or inexplicable occurrences that are perceived to be outside of conventional reality or rational explanation.
Paranormal phenomena often include supernatural entities, such as ghosts, spirits, or otherworldly beings, that are believed to interact with the physical world. This can manifest through phenomena like poltergeist activity, hauntings, or ghostly apparitions. Additionally, the paranormal may involve psychic or extrasensory abilities, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, or precognition, which defy the limitations of the five senses.
The term "paranormal" also encompasses various phenomena associated with the occult and mysticism, including witchcraft, divination, astrology, and spellcasting. These practices often involve the belief in supernatural powers or forces that can influence human affairs or predict the future.
It is essential to note that the paranormal exists on the fringes of scientific consensus and is often met with skepticism due to the lack of empirical evidence and the inability to replicate or observe such phenomena under controlled conditions. However, for many individuals, the paranormal represents a reality that cannot be explained by conventional scientific methods and serves as a realm that invites exploration, curiosity, and the investigation of the unknown.
The word "paranormal" originates from a combination of two Greek words: "para" meaning "alongside, beside", and "normal" meaning "according to the rule, the norm". In the late 19th century, the term "paranormal" was coined to describe phenomena or events that are beyond the scope of normal scientific explanation or understanding.