A poltergeist (German for noisy ghost) is an invisible entity (ghost) that moves (and throws) objects and causes electrical malfunctions by telekinesis. Doing so classifies them as (inter)active spirits, in contrast to non-interactive ones which engage only in minimal action such as showing themselves. Poltergeister (German plural) are mischievous beings, and connected to an object (usually a building) or a person. The haunting by a poltergeist is called infestation. Most classic poltergeist stories and (presumably) incidents originate in England.
Famous (said-to-be) poltergeist infestations :
- The demon drummer of Tedworth (17th century)
- The Borley Rectory phenomena (20th century)
There is a poltergeist named Peeves in the Harry Potter books.