Translates as "night creature", and can refer to any creature of the night; werewolves, zombies, vampires, demons, etc.

When used for vampires, it usually refers to the more grotesque breed (such as the creature from the original silent film "Nosferatu"), as opposed to the more popularized, handsome breed (such as the vampires from "Interview with the Vampire").

Amazing 1922 German silent film about the vampire, Nosferatu. There has never been a more frightening portrayal of a vampire than in that film. The movie RULES!!!!!

from latin nox (night) and fero (to bring/to carry). basically, a bringer/carrier of night. usually refered to vampires.

The name of a vampire in a very old horror movie by the same name, it is sometimes used to refer to vampires in general, when one does not wish to use the popular term "vampire"

Usually reserved for vampires, pulling a "Noseferatu" refers to sneaking into your friend's house to sleep with their mother.

Nosferatu is the level of vampiricy that allows the vampire to turn into mist, turn into bats, heal his/her wounds almost instananteously, and fight back the urge to feed.

(n)short: nos
Also a Clan of vampires from White Wolf Publishings Vampire: The Masquerade