Goblin

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈɡɒblɪn/

Definitions

• A mischievous or malicious creature from folklore, typically depicted as a small, grotesque, and sometimes evil being, often associated with dark magic or tricks.
• In modern fantasy literature, a goblin is usually portrayed as a small, impish creature, often with an affinity for gold and treasure, and sometimes as a servant of darker forces.
• In a more figurative sense, the term can refer to a mischievous or troublesome person, often in a playful or exaggerated manner.

Usage Examples

• The goblin lurked in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to cause trouble.
• The children were frightened by the stories of goblins who lived in the dark forests.
• He was a goblin of a man, always causing chaos wherever he went.

Etymology

The word "goblin" originates from the Middle French "gobelin," which referred to a mischievous spirit. The term was later adopted into English in the late 14th century. The French word itself may have come from the Greek "kobalos," meaning "rogue" or "knave," reflecting the goblin’s association with trickery and mischief.

Synonyms

• Imp
• Sprite
• Gremlin
• Elf
• Monstrous creature

Antonyms

• Angel
• Hero
• Guardian
• Benefactor

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In North American English, the pronunciation emphasizes the "gob" part: /ˈɡɒblɪn/.
• In British English, the pronunciation may be slightly softer, with a focus on the "lin" part.
• In various regions, such as in the UK, "goblin" is sometimes pronounced with a short "o," whereas in American English, it tends to be pronounced with a long "o" sound.

Historical Usage

The word "goblin" first appeared in English in the late Middle Ages, influenced by Old French and Germanic roots. Early goblins were often depicted as malevolent spirits or small demons causing trouble for humans. Over time, goblins became a popular subject in fairy tales, folklore, and later in fantasy literature, evolving from their dark origins into more varied and sometimes humorous figures in modern fantasy.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of goblins appears in many different cultures, often with variations. In European folklore, goblins were seen as creatures that lived in forests or underground, causing mischief or even harm. In contrast, in some Asian cultures, similar figures are more benevolent or neutral. The portrayal of goblins has evolved over time, with modern depictions often showing them as less evil and more mischievous or comical characters.

More Information

Goblins are among the most iconic figures in folklore and fantasy literature. They appear in stories from all over the world, from European myths to contemporary fantasy novels. Goblins are often characterized by their small size, cunning, and mischievous nature. In modern times, goblins are popular figures in role-playing games, video games, and movies, where they are sometimes depicted as bumbling yet dangerous creatures. In literature, they are often used to represent the darker, more primal aspects of human nature, making them a versatile and enduring element in storytelling.