Vodoun, also known as Voodoo, is a religion practiced in the Caribbean and West Africa. It is a blend of African beliefs and Catholicism, and the word "vodoun" itself means spirit or deity. There are several synonyms for Vodoun, including Vodou, Voudou, Vaudou, Vodu and Voodoo. These synonyms reflect the different ways the religion is spelled and pronounced in various regions. Despite their differences, all these terms refer to the same religion, which is characterized by the worship of spirits, ancestor veneration, and the use of charms and amulets for protection.