The prefix "para-" means "close to" or "next to." Therefore, the word "paranormal" means "next to a phantom" or refers to something that is beyond or outside the normal or scientific understanding.
The prefix "para-" means "close to" or "next to." So, when combined with the word "normal," the term "paranormal" means "next to normal" or "close to normal." However, in common usage, paranormal refers to phenomena that are beyond what is considered scientifically explainable or outside the realm of normality. It often refers to experiences or events that are associated with supernatural or unexplained forces, such as ghosts, psychic abilities, or UFO sightings. So, the correct definition for paranormal is "next to a phantom" or "close to unusual."