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Devil's advocate -

Today, a "devil's advocate" refers to someone who argues against a position, either annoyingly or to examine issues from all angles. Originally a formal role in the Roman Catholic Church, the devil's advocate, advocatus diaboli, challenged candidates for sainthood, revealing any fraudulent claims or hidden flaws.

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Skeletons in the closet -

"Skeletons in the closet" denotes a hidden secret, typically one that is shameful or embarrassing. Popularized in the 19th century, it evokes the concept of concealed truths that can lead to scandal or guilt if uncovered, implying that everyone has something to hide.

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Witching hour -

This term refers to the time of night when supernatural events are said to occur, typically around midnight. It originates from folklore, reflecting the belief that witches and ghosts are most active during this period. 

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Make your blood curdle (or run cold) -

If something makes your blood curdle or run cold, it fills you with terror. These expressions stem from medieval beliefs that the body had four humors, and fear could freeze or thicken blood. Initially, "curdling" referred to any strong negative emotion, as shown in Edmund Spenser's 1579 work about despair.

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Curiosity killed the cat -

The phrase "curiosity killed the cat" originated in the early 20th century, evolving from an earlier version that emphasized the dangers of curiosity. While the exact source is unclear, it highlights the notion that inquisitiveness can lead to trouble.

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Graveyard shift -

Legend has it that the phrase "graveyard shift" originally referred to sitting in a graveyard at night to ensure no one was buried alive. However, historical records don't support this. Instead, the term gained popularity in the late 19th century for various nighttime jobs, emphasizing the quiet hours of the night.

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Ghost town -

A "ghost town" is a deserted or abandoned settlement, typically marked by an eerie silence. The term emerged in the 19th century, when mining towns were vacated after resources were exhausted.

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Dead as a doornail -

"Dead as a doornail" refers to something that is completely dead or inoperative. Originating in the 14th century, the exact roots of the phrase are unclear, but it likely relates to a doornail, a type of nail hammered flat and rendered unusable. 

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Bone-chilling -

The adjective "bone-chilling" describes something that causes a deep sense of fear or extreme terror. The term combines "bone," referring to the core of the body, and "chilling," indicating a cold sensation. 

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Creepy crawly -

"Creepy crawly" refers to an insect or creature that evokes feelings of disgust or fear. The phrase combines "creepy," meaning frightening, and "crawly," describing creatures that move along the ground or walls. 

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Dead men tell no tales -

This phrase implies that the deceased can't reveal secrets, suggesting that hidden truths remain buried with them. Commonly linked to ghost stories and pirate lore, this phrase evokes a chilling sense of finality, reminding us that people so often take their secrets to the grave.

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Crossing over -

This saying refers to the transition from life to death, often associated with the afterlife. It has roots in various religious and spiritual beliefs about death and the journey to another realm.

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Fright night -

This phrase describes an event or evening characterized by fear or horror. Popularized by films and media, it suggests a night filled with spooky activities. 

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Gates of hell -

Metaphorically, the "gates of hell" are the entrance to the underworld or a place of punishment after death. With biblical roots in the New Testament, it symbolizes the fate of those who lead sinful lives.

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Dark night of the soul -

A "dark night of the soul" is a profoundly challenging and painful time in someone's life, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a marriage, or the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness.

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Sleep with one eye open -

"Sleep with one eye open" originates from the idea of remaining vigilant, even in moments of rest. The phrase emphasizes the necessity of being cautious and alert to potential dangers or betrayals.

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A dark pact -

A "dark pact" refers to an agreement made with sinister forces, often involving supernatural elements. It evokes themes of temptation, danger, and the supernatural.

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A ghost of a chance -

This saying indicates a slim chance of success, evoking images of elusive, ethereal figures. It suggests that while there may be some hope, it's weak and insubstantial, much like a ghost

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Dead man walking -

The phrase "dead man walking" refers to a person in imminent danger of death, often used to describe someone on death row. Originating in a prison context, the phrase has evolved to symbolize impending doom.

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Chasing shadows -

This phrase describes the pursuit of something elusive or unattainable. It evokes imagery of trying to catch shadows that escape, commonly used in literature and folklore to illustrate the futility of seeking ghosts or lost opportunities.

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Rattle the chains -

"Rattle the chains" evokes fear or a sense of impending doom, often linked to ghosts. It refers to the sound of dragging chains associated with ghost stories.

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Horror show -

This phrase describes a scene of extreme chaos or terror, often characterized by shocking elements. Originating in the theatrical world, where productions sought to terrify audiences, it has since evolved into everyday language to describe any chaotic or unsettling situation encountered in life.

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Full moon madness -

Capturing the mythical spirit of Halloween, this phrase is rooted in folklore. It suggests that the full moon influences human behavior, particularly in relation to werewolves and other supernatural entities.

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What lurks in the dark -

This phrase emphasizes the fear of the dark and the unknown, suggesting that hidden threats await. Commonly used in horror stories, it creates an atmosphere of suspense and dread.

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Nightmare fuel -

"Nightmare fuel" refers to content that inspires fear or anxiety, especially horror movies. It describes elements that provoke intense fear and create haunting images, particularly during the Halloween season.

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Doomed to wander -

"Doomed to wander" means being forever lost or condemned to roam without purpose. This phrase is often associated with ghost stories and folklore, suggesting a curse that prevents closure or resolution in life.

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Eerie silence -

An "eerie silence" is an unsettling quiet that evokes fear or anticipation. It emphasizes the tension of waiting for something frightening to happen, which is common to Halloween nights and ghost stories.

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Chilling encounter -

A "chilling encounter" describes a frightening or unsettling experience, often involving the supernatural, and captures the essence of Halloween thrills and ghost stories.

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A grave situation -

Playing on the dual meaning of "grave," this phrase denotes a serious or dangerous situation with dire consequences. In a Halloween context, it conjures images of death and decay.

Sources: (Mental Floss) (Business Insider) (Merriam-Webster) 

See also: Spooky Halloween traditions and their origins

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