Phan·tom n.  That which has only an apparent existence; an apparition; a specter; a phantasm; a sprite; an airy spirit; an ideal image.
    Strange phantoms rising as the mists arise.   --Pope.
    She was a phantom of delight.   --Wordsworth.
 Phantom ship. See Flying Dutchman, under Flying.
 Phantom tumor Med., a swelling, especially of the abdomen, due to muscular spasm, accumulation of flatus, etc., simulating an actual tumor in appearance, but disappearing upon the administration of an anæsthetic.